chiquito
“chiquito” means “tiny” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
tiny, very small
Also: little
📝 In Action
Tengo un perro chiquito en mi casa.
A1I have a tiny dog at my house.
El apartamento es chiquito pero muy bonito.
A2The apartment is very small but very pretty.
Corta el papel en pedazos chiquitos.
B1Cut the paper into tiny pieces.
little boy, kid
Also: little one
📝 In Action
El chiquito no quiere comer sus verduras.
A2The little boy doesn't want to eat his vegetables.
De chiquito, yo vivía en Madrid.
A2When I was a little kid, I lived in Madrid.
Es un chiquito muy inteligente.
B1He is a very smart little kid.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: chiquito
Question 1 of 3
What does the phrase 'desde chiquito' usually mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Spanish word 'chico' (small), which comes from the Latin 'ciccum' meaning the thin membrane or pith of a pomegranate, metaphorically used for something of little value or size.
First recorded: 15th Century (as the diminutive form of chico)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'chiquito' rude?
Not at all! It is actually very affectionate. However, because it is informal, you should avoid using it in professional documents or very formal speeches.
What is the difference between 'chico' and 'chiquito'?
'Chico' means small. 'Chiquito' adds the '-ito' ending, which emphasizes that it is even smaller or adds a sense of 'cuteness' to the object.
Can I use 'chiquito' for a person's height?
In casual conversation, yes, people often use it to mean 'short'. But in a doctor's office or formal setting, 'bajo' is the correct term for a person's height.