caballero
/kah-bah-YEH-roh/
gentleman
Caballero, meaning "gentleman," is a polite term used for men.
caballero(Noun)
gentleman
?polite term for a man
,sir
?used when directly addressing a man
Mr. (informal title)
?in some regional contexts
📝 In Action
Disculpe, caballero, ¿sabe dónde está el baño?
A2Excuse me, sir, do you know where the restroom is?
Esperamos a un caballero que lleva un sombrero rojo.
A2We are waiting for a gentleman who is wearing a red hat.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Noun
Since this word ends in '-o', it is always masculine, referring only to men. The female equivalent is 'dama' (lady).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using 'caballero' too informally
Mistake: "Using 'caballero' with a friend in casual conversation."
Correction: This word is polite, use 'amigo' (friend) or just their name in informal settings.
⭐ Usage Tips
The Politeness Factor
Using 'caballero' is usually slightly more respectful than just saying 'señor,' often used by waiters, shop staff, or when asking for a favor.
Historically, a Caballero was a "knight," often depicted as a mounted warrior.
📝 In Action
El caballero andante de la historia luchó contra un dragón.
B1The wandering knight in the story fought against a dragon.
La armadura del caballero pesaba muchísimo.
B1The knight's armor weighed a lot.
⭐ Usage Tips
Literal Meaning
This meaning directly reflects the word's origin: someone who rides a 'caballo' (horse).
This definition of Caballero describes a "chivalrous man" known for honor and courtesy.
caballero(Noun)
chivalrous man
?a man of honor and courtesy
,gentleman
?a man with impeccable manners
📝 In Action
Él es un verdadero caballero, siempre ofreciendo su asiento.
B2He is a true gentleman, always offering his seat.
Su comportamiento fue el de un caballero, muy respetuoso.
B2His behavior was that of a gentleman, very respectful.
⭐ Usage Tips
Using the related adjective
To describe the quality of being a gentleman, you can use the adjective 'caballeroso' (chivalrous/gentlemanly).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: caballero
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'caballero' is used when asking a stranger for directions in a polite, neutral way?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'caballero' and 'señor'?
'Señor' is the basic, standard equivalent of 'Mister' or 'Sir' and is used very broadly. 'Caballero' is generally reserved for slightly more formal situations or is used specifically to emphasize respect or good manners, suggesting a 'true gentleman'.
How do you form the feminine version of 'caballero'?
Unlike many masculine nouns, 'caballero' doesn't just change the ending to '-a'. The corresponding feminine term for a lady, especially in formal or historical contexts, is 'dama'.