Inklingo
← Dictionary

centavo

sen-TAH-voh/senˈtaβo/

“centavo” means “cent” in Spanish (monetary unit (1/100th of a dollar, peso, etc.)).

cent

Also: penny
NounmA1
Mexico and Central AmericaSpain
A close-up illustration of a single, simple copper coin, representing one centavo.

📝 In Action

Solo me queda un centavo en el bolsillo.

A1

I only have one cent left in my pocket.

El precio del chicle es de cincuenta centavos.

A1

The price of the gum is fifty cents.

No vale ni un centavo, es basura.

B1

It's not worth even a cent, it's garbage.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • moneda (coin)
  • cobre (copper (informal term for a low-value coin))

Common Collocations

  • contar centavos – to count cents (to be frugal)
  • ni un centavo – not a single cent

Idioms & Expressions

  • No tener un centavo – To be completely broke or penniless

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "centavo" in Spanish:

cent→penny→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: centavo

Question 1 of 2

If something costs 75 centavos, how much of the main unit of currency (like a dollar) is that?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
ciento(one hundred) — Number
centésimo(hundredth) — Adjective
céntimo(cent (used in Spain and other regions)) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

The word 'centavo' is built on the Latin root 'centum,' which means 'one hundred.' It literally refers to the hundredth part of the main currency unit (like a dollar or a peso).

First recorded: Mid-19th century (coinciding with decimal currency systems in Spanish-speaking nations)

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: centavoItalian: centesimoEnglish: cent

💡 Master Spanish

Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'centavo' and 'céntimo'?

Both words mean 'cent' or 'hundredth part.' 'Centavo' is used in most Latin American countries (e.g., Mexico, Argentina). 'Céntimo' is the term used for the cent unit of the Euro in Spain.

Can 'centavo' be used figuratively?

Yes! You often hear phrases like 'No vale ni un centavo' (It's not worth a single cent), meaning something is worthless, or 'estar sin un centavo' (to be without a cent), meaning you are broke.