don
“don” means “Don” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Don
Also: Sir
📝 In Action
Buenos días, don Carlos.
A2Good morning, Don Carlos.
Mi abuelo, don José, era un hombre muy sabio.
B1My grandfather, Don José, was a very wise man.
Le presento a don Miguel, el director de la empresa.
B1I'd like to introduce you to Don Miguel, the company director.
gift
Also: knack, flair
📝 In Action
Tiene un don para la música.
B1He has a gift for music.
Ella posee el don de gentes.
B2She has a real way with people (literally, the gift of people).
Cocinar bien es un don que no todos tenemos.
B1Cooking well is a gift that not all of us have.
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: don
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'don' to mean a special talent?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word has two different origins! The title 'Don' comes from the Latin word 'dominus', meaning 'lord' or 'master'. The noun 'don' meaning 'gift' comes from a different Latin word, 'donum', which means 'gift'.
First recorded: 10th century (as title), 12th century (as gift)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the female version of 'don'?
The equivalent for women is 'doña', used in the same way: right before a first name, like 'doña María'.
Can I say 'Don Smith'?
No, 'don' is only used with a person's first name (e.g., 'don Juan'). To be formal with a last name, you should use 'señor' (e.g., 'señor Smith').
Is 'don' used in all Spanish-speaking countries?
Yes, it's understood everywhere, but its use is more common and traditional in countries like Spain, Mexico, and Colombia. In some other regions, it might sound a little old-fashioned, but it's always considered respectful.