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calzoncillo

kal-son-SEE-yo/kalsonˈsijo/

“calzoncillo” means “underpants” in Spanish (men's underwear).

underpants

Also: briefs, boxers
NounmA2
MexicoArgentina
A pair of men's blue cotton boxer shorts with a simple white elastic waistband.

📝 In Action

Necesito comprar un calzoncillo nuevo porque este ya está viejo.

A1

I need to buy a new pair of underpants because this one is already old.

Él prefiere el calzoncillo de algodón porque es más cómodo.

A2

He prefers cotton underwear because it is more comfortable.

Se me olvidó empacar más de un calzoncillo en la maleta.

B1

I forgot to pack more than one pair of underpants in the suitcase.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • calzón (underpants (common in Latin America))
  • bóxer (boxer shorts)
  • trusa (briefs (regional))

Common Collocations

  • calzoncillo de algodón – cotton underpants
  • quedarse en calzoncillos – to be left in one's underwear

Idioms & Expressions

  • Pillar a alguien en calzoncillos – To catch someone off guard or unprepared

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "calzoncillo" in Spanish:

boxers→briefs→underpants→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: calzoncillo

Question 1 of 3

How do Spanish speakers usually refer to a single pair of underwear in daily conversation?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
calzón(large undergarment/breeches) — Noun
calzonazo(a man who is easily led or 'whipped') — Noun
descalzo(barefoot) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

Derived from 'calzón' (breeches), which comes from the Latin 'calceus' (shoe). The suffix '-illo' was added to indicate a smaller version of the garment that goes underneath.

First recorded: 16th century

Cognates (Related words)

Italian: calzoniFrench: caleçon

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'calzoncillo' used for women's underwear too?

No, 'calzoncillo' refers specifically to men's undergarments. Women's underwear is usually called 'bragas' in Spain or 'calzones'/'pantaletas' in Latin America.

What's the difference between 'calzón' and 'calzoncillo'?

'Calzón' is a more general, slightly older term that can mean breeches or underwear depending on the country. 'Calzoncillo' specifically refers to the modern male undergarment.

Can I just say 'ropa interior' instead?

Yes! 'Ropa interior' means 'underwear' in a general sense for both men and women, and it is a safe, polite term to use in any situation.