celoso
“celoso” means “jealous” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
jealous
Also: envious
📝 In Action
Mi hermana estaba celosa de mis buenas notas en el examen.
A2My sister was jealous of my good grades on the exam.
No puedo evitar ser celoso cuando mi novia habla con otros chicos.
B1I can't help being jealous when my girlfriend talks to other guys.
El perro es muy celoso con su juguete favorito.
B1The dog is very protective (jealous) of its favorite toy.
zealous
Also: vigilant
📝 In Action
Es un celoso guardián de la ley y el orden.
C1He is a zealous/vigilant guardian of law and order.
El comité fue celoso en la protección de los fondos.
C2The committee was vigilant in the protection of the funds.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: celoso
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'celoso' in its formal meaning of 'zealous' or 'vigilant'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Late Latin *zelosus*, which itself is derived from the Greek word *zēlos*, meaning 'ardent spirit,' 'emulation,' or 'zeal.' This explains why 'celoso' carries both the protective/vigilant meaning (zeal) and the envious/suspicious meaning (jealousy).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'celoso' and 'envidioso'?
Both relate to wanting what others have, but 'celoso' (jealous) often involves suspicion or fear of losing something you already possess (like a partner or status). 'Envidioso' (envious) is simpler: it means you want something someone else has (like money or a big house).
How do I make 'celoso' feminine?
You simply change the final 'o' to an 'a' to match a female person or feminine noun: 'celosa'.