limpio
“limpio” means “clean” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
clean
Also: spotless, neat
📝 In Action
Mi habitación está limpia por fin.
A1My room is clean finally.
¿Está limpio el plato?
A1Is the plate clean?
Necesito una toalla limpia.
A2I need a clean towel.
honest
Also: innocent, clear
📝 In Action
Él tiene un historial limpio.
B1He has a clean record.
Fue un juego limpio y sin trampas.
B1It was a fair game without cheating.
Ella quiere tener su conciencia limpia.
B2She wants to have a clear conscience.
net
Also: smooth, broke
📝 In Action
El salario limpio es lo que recibes después de impuestos.
B2The net salary is what you receive after taxes.
El cirujano hizo un corte muy limpio.
B2The surgeon made a very clean (smooth, precise) cut.
Perdí mi cartera y ahora estoy limpio.
C1I lost my wallet and now I am broke.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: limpio
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'limpio' to mean 'net' or 'after deductions'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *limpidus*, which meant 'clear' or 'bright,' specifically describing water that was transparent. This original meaning connects perfectly to the modern idea of something free from dirt or cloudiness.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'limpio' used in so many different ways (clean, honest, net)?
All the meanings stem from the core idea of 'purity' or 'being without blemish.' A physical space without dirt, a person's conscience without guilt, or a financial amount without deductions are all 'limpio' (pure/clear) in their respective contexts.
Does 'limpio' change gender?
Yes, 'limpio' is an adjective and must change to match the thing it describes. For a masculine singular object, use 'limpio' (el coche limpio); for feminine singular, use 'limpia' (la mesa limpia). It also takes plural forms: 'limpios' and 'limpias'.