clandestino
“clandestino” means “secret” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
secret, illegal
Also: underground, clandestine
📝 In Action
Ellos tenían una reunión clandestina en el sótano.
B1They were having a secret meeting in the basement.
El casino era clandestino y no tenía permisos.
B1The casino was illegal and didn't have permits.
Publicaron un periódico clandestino durante la guerra.
B2They published an underground newspaper during the war.
undocumented person
Also: clandestine worker
📝 In Action
La canción 'Clandestino' de Manu Chao es muy famosa.
A2The song 'Clandestino' by Manu Chao is very famous.
Muchos clandestinos cruzan el mar en busca de una vida mejor.
B2Many undocumented people cross the sea in search of a better life.
Él vive como un clandestino en la ciudad.
C1He lives like a person in hiding in the city.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "clandestino" in Spanish:
clandestine→clandestine worker→illegal→secret→underground→undocumented person→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: clandestino
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the best example of something 'clandestino'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'clandestinus', which comes from 'clam', meaning 'secretly' or 'in private'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 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
Is 'clandestino' always a bad thing?
Not necessarily. While it often implies illegal activity, in history, 'clandestine' movements (like the resistance in WWII) are often viewed heroically.
What is the difference between 'ilegal' and 'clandestino'?
'Ilegal' simply means it's against the law. 'Clandestino' means it's hidden. An illegal act can be done in public, but a clandestine act is always secret.
Can I use 'clandestino' for a secret boyfriend?
Yes, if the relationship is hidden because it's forbidden (for example, by parents or a workplace), you can poetically call it an 'amor clandestino'.