jovencita
“jovencita” means “young woman” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
young woman, girl
Also: lass
📝 In Action
La jovencita de la tienda es muy amable.
A2The young woman at the store is very kind.
¿Quién es esa jovencita que acaba de entrar?
B1Who is that young girl who just walked in?
Mi hermana mayor ya no es una niña; es toda una jovencita.
B1My older sister is no longer a child; she is quite a young woman.
young
Also: youthful
📝 In Action
Ella tiene una cara jovencita y alegre.
B1She has a youthful and cheerful face.
Esta es mi prima jovencita.
B2This is my young cousin (female).
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: jovencita
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'jovencita' to show affection?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word is built from the Spanish adjective 'joven' (young), which comes from the Latin word *iuvenis* (young person). The ending '-cita' is a common Spanish diminutive suffix, meaning 'little' or adding a sense of affection.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish period (as 'joven'), with the diminutive form becoming common later.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'joven' and 'jovencita'?
'Joven' is the standard, neutral word for 'young person' (can be male or female) or the adjective 'young'. 'Jovencita' specifically means 'young woman' or 'young girl' and carries an extra layer of affection, cuteness, or sometimes slight condescension, depending on the context.
Can I use 'jovencita' for a little girl, like a five-year-old?
While technically possible, 'jovencita' usually refers to teenagers or young adults (15-25). For a five-year-old, it is more common to use 'niña' (girl) or 'pequeñita' (little one).