bribón
“bribón” means “rascal” in Spanish (playful or slightly negative term for a naughty person).
rascal
Also: scoundrel, scamp
📝 In Action
¡Vuelve aquí, pequeño bribón!
A2Come back here, you little rascal!
Ese bribón me vendió un reloj que no funciona.
B1That scoundrel sold me a watch that doesn't work.
Es un bribón muy simpático y siempre se sale con la suya.
B2He is a very likable rogue and always gets his way.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: bribón
Question 1 of 3
If someone calls a child a 'bribón' while laughing, what do they mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Probably from the Old Spanish word 'briba,' which referred to a life of idleness or begging. It is related to the idea of someone who prefers to live by their wits rather than by honest work.
First recorded: 16th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'bribón' a very offensive swear word?
No, it is not a 'bad word' or profanity. It can be an insult (meaning scoundrel) or a playful term (meaning rascal), but it is safe to use in general conversation.
How do I use this for a woman?
You would change the ending to 'bribona.' For example: 'Ella es una bribona' (She is a rascal).
Is 'bribón' used more in Spain or Latin America?
It is understood everywhere, but it has a very 'classic' feel in Spain, often appearing in stories and traditional plays.