compacto
“compacto” means “compact” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
compact
Also: dense, solid
📝 In Action
Este nuevo teléfono tiene un diseño muy compacto.
A2This new phone has a very compact design.
La nieve estaba tan compacta que podíamos caminar sobre ella.
B1The snow was so dense that we could walk on it.
Necesitamos un resumen más compacto de los hechos.
B2We need a more concise (compact) summary of the facts.
compact car
Also: compact
📝 In Action
Prefiero conducir un compacto porque es más fácil de aparcar.
B1I prefer driving a compact car because it is easier to park.
El garaje es pequeño, solo cabe un compacto.
B1The garage is small; only a compact car fits.
Los compactos suelen consumir menos combustible.
B2Compact cars usually consume less fuel.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: compacto
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly describes a small car?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'compactus', which is the past participle of 'compingere' (to put together, to join).
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'compacto' mean the same thing in every country?
Yes, its physical meaning (dense/small) is universal. However, in car terminology, local brands might use 'hatchback' or 'utilitario' instead.
Can I use 'compacto' for people?
Not usually to describe their body size (use 'corpulento' or 'bajito' instead), but you can use it for a 'grupo compacto' to mean they are very united.
Is 'compacto' a verb too?
Technically, 'compacto' is the 'yo' form of the verb 'compactar' (I compact), but it is much more commonly used as an adjective or noun.