enano
/eh-NAH-no/
dwarf
Enano, when used as a noun, refers to a person of short stature, or a dwarf.
enano(noun)
dwarf
?person of short stature
,little person
?respectful term
gnome
?mythical creature
📝 In Action
Blancanieves vivió con siete enanos.
A2Snow White lived with seven dwarves.
El enano del circo era muy famoso.
B1The circus dwarf was very famous.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Change
This word changes its ending to match the gender of the person: 'el enano' (male) and 'la enana' (female).
⭐ Usage Tips
Sensitivity Note
While 'enano' is the standard translation for 'dwarf,' be aware that 'persona pequeña' (little person) is often preferred in formal or sensitive contexts.
When used as an adjective, enano means dwarf or miniature, often describing a small tree or animal variety.
enano(adjective)
dwarf
?describing a tree or animal
,miniature
?very small version
undersized
?smaller than normal
📝 In Action
Compramos un árbol de limón enano para el balcón.
B2We bought a dwarf lemon tree for the balcony.
El perro es de una raza enana muy rara.
B2The dog is of a very rare miniature breed.
💡 Grammar Points
Agreement is Key
As an adjective, 'enano' must change its ending to match the noun it describes. For example, 'árbol enano' (masculine singular) but 'razas enanas' (feminine plural).
⭐ Usage Tips
Scientific Use
'Enano' is often used in scientific contexts, like astronomy ('estrella enana' = dwarf star) or botany ('planta enana' = dwarf plant).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: enano
Question 1 of 2
Which Spanish sentence correctly uses 'enano' as an adjective?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'enano' considered offensive?
In Spanish, 'enano' is the standard, neutral term for 'dwarf' and is commonly used in literature and general conversation. However, just like in English, 'persona pequeña' (little person) is often preferred as a more respectful alternative, especially when referring to individuals.
Can 'enano' be used to call someone short in a mean way?
Yes. Like many descriptive words, 'enano' can be used informally or insultingly if applied to someone who is just short (not a dwarf) in an attempt to mock their height.