heleno
“heleno” means “Greek” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Greek
Also: Hellenic
📝 In Action
La civilización helena ha influido en todo el mundo.
B1Hellenic civilization has influenced the whole world.
Estamos analizando el arte heleno en la universidad.
B2We are analyzing Greek art at the university.
El espíritu heleno se siente en las calles de Atenas.
C1The Greek spirit can be felt in the streets of Athens.
Greek
Also: Hellene
📝 In Action
Los antiguos helenos inventaron la democracia.
A2The ancient Greeks invented democracy.
Un grupo de helenos llegó para la conferencia.
B2A group of Greeks arrived for the conference.
Platón fue un heleno que cambió el pensamiento humano.
B1Plato was a Hellene who changed human thought.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: heleno
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the most common, everyday way to say 'Greek'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'Hellenus', which came from the Greek word 'Hellēn'. This is the name the Greeks have used for themselves since ancient times.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between 'heleno' and 'griego'?
Yes. 'Griego' is the common word for anything related to modern or ancient Greece. 'Heleno' is more poetic, formal, or academic, often used when discussing history, philosophy, or the 'Hellenic' world.
Why do some people say 'helénico' instead?
'Helénico' is another adjective that means exactly the same thing. It is even more formal than 'heleno' and is frequently used for official titles, like the 'Comité Olímpico Helénico'.
Does 'heleno' always mean a person?
No, it can be an adjective to describe things (like food, art, or history) or a noun to describe a person. Just remember to change it to 'helena' if you're talking about a woman or a feminine object!