gordo
“gordo” means “fat” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
fat
Also: overweight, chubby
📝 In Action
El perro de mi vecino está muy gordo.
A1My neighbor's dog is very fat.
Ella no está gorda, solo tiene una complexión fuerte.
A2She is not fat, she just has a strong build.
thick
Also: big, chunky
📝 In Action
Compré un libro muy gordo sobre historia de México.
A2I bought a very thick book about Mexican history.
La cuerda era demasiado gorda para ese agujero.
B1The rope was too thick for that hole.
fat person
Also: fatty, chubby one
📝 In Action
¡Hola, gordo! ¿Cómo te va la vida?
B1Hey, fatty/chubby one! How's life going?
El gordo de la oficina siempre trae postres.
B2The chubby guy in the office always brings desserts.
main
Also: major, bulk
📝 In Action
Lo más gordo del problema es la financiación.
C1The main part/biggest challenge of the problem is the financing.
Ganamos El Gordo de la Lotería de Navidad.
C2We won the major prize (The Fat One) in the Christmas Lottery.
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Quick Quiz: gordo
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'gordo' in its figurative meaning, rather than describing physical size?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *gurdus*, which originally meant 'dull,' 'heavy,' or 'stupid.' The meaning shifted over time from mental heaviness to physical heaviness or bulkiness.
First recorded: Documented in Spanish usage since the 13th century.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'gordo' always an insult?
Absolutely not. While it can be used negatively, it is extremely common in many Spanish-speaking countries (especially in Latin America) as a term of endearment, like 'sweetheart' or 'honey,' often used between partners or family members, regardless of their actual weight.
What is 'El Gordo'?
'El Gordo' (The Fat One) is the nickname for the grand prize in the famous Spanish Christmas Lottery, known for its enormous jackpot.