Inklingo

hermanito

ehr-mah-NEE-toheɾ.maˈni.to

hermanito means little brother in Spanish (younger male sibling).

little brother, younger brother

Also: bro, dear brother
NounmA1Neutral to informal
A high quality storybook illustration depicting a very young boy, smiling and holding a small toy car, representing a little brother.

📝 In Action

Mi hermanito tiene que ir a la cama a las ocho.

A1

My little brother has to go to bed at eight o'clock.

¡Hola, hermanito! ¿Quieres venir al cine con nosotros?

A2

Hey, little brother (or bro)! Do you want to come to the movies with us?

Aunque es más alto que yo, para mí siempre será mi hermanito.

B1

Even though he is taller than me, he will always be my dear brother.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • hermano menor (younger brother)

Antonyms

  • hermanón (big brother (often implies large size))

Common Collocations

  • cuidar a mi hermanitoto look after my little brother
  • el hermanito de mi amigomy friend's little brother

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "hermanito" in Spanish:

brodear brotherlittle brotheryounger brother

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: hermanito

Question 1 of 1

Which of these situations is the most appropriate time to use 'hermanito'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology

The base word 'hermano' comes from the Latin *germanus*, meaning 'full brother' (sharing the same parents). The Spanish language added the diminutive suffix '-ito' to create 'hermanito,' emphasizing smallness, youth, or affection.

First recorded: Medieval Spanish (The base word 'hermano')

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: irmãozinhoItalian: fratellino

💡 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 'hermanito' only used for younger brothers?

No. While it literally means 'little brother,' it is very often used as a term of endearment for any brother, regardless of their age or physical size. It emphasizes affection and closeness.