decano
“decano” means “dean” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
dean
Also: head
📝 In Action
El decano de la facultad de leyes entregó los diplomas.
B2The dean of the law school handed out the diplomas.
Necesitas la firma del decano para cambiar de curso.
B2You need the dean's signature to change courses.
senior member
Also: doyen
📝 In Action
Es el decano de los periodistas deportivos en el país.
C1He is the senior member of the sports journalists in the country.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: decano
Question 1 of 1
If someone is the 'decano' of a law firm, what does that mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'decanus', which originally meant a leader of ten people (like a squad leader in the army). Over time, it moved from the military to the church, and finally to universities.
First recorded: 13th 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 'decano' the same as a 'rector'?
No. A 'rector' is the head of the entire university, while a 'decano' is only the head of one specific department or faculty.
Can I use 'decano' for a woman?
Usually, you would change it to 'decana' when referring to a woman.