cristiano
“cristiano” means “Christian” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Christian
Also: decent, godly
📝 In Action
La Navidad es la celebración más importante del calendario cristiano.
A1Christmas is the most important celebration in the Christian calendar.
Necesitamos tener un comportamiento más cristiano con los vecinos.
B1We need to have more decent/Christian behavior toward our neighbors.
El arte cristiano antiguo es fascinante.
A2Ancient Christian art is fascinating.
Christian
Also: believer
📝 In Action
Mi abuelo es un cristiano devoto y va a misa todos los domingos.
A2My grandfather is a devout Christian and goes to mass every Sunday.
Los cristianos celebran la Resurrección en Pascua.
A1Christians celebrate the Resurrection at Easter.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cristiano
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'cristiano' to describe a person, rather than a concept?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Late Latin term *christiānus*, which was formed by combining the name 'Christus' (Christ) with a suffix meaning 'belonging to' or 'follower of.' It has been in use since the early days of Spanish.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cristiano' capitalized in Spanish?
Generally, no. When referring to the religion or a follower, it is written in lowercase (cristiano). You only capitalize it if it is the first word of a sentence or part of a proper name.
How do I say 'Christianity'?
The religion itself is called 'el cristianismo' (the 'ism' suffix turns it into the name of the belief system).