mago
“mago” means “magician” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
magician
Also: illusionist
📝 In Action
El mago sacó una paloma de su manga.
A2The magician took a dove out of his sleeve.
Fuimos a un espectáculo de magia y el mago fue muy divertido.
B1We went to a magic show and the magician was very funny.
wizard
Also: sorcerer, Magi
📝 In Action
El mago Merlín ayudó al Rey Arturo con su sabiduría.
B1Merlin the wizard helped King Arthur with his wisdom.
En España, los Reyes Magos traen regalos la noche del 5 de enero.
B2In Spain, the Three Kings bring gifts on the night of January 5th.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: mago
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'mago' to refer to a theatrical performer?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin 'magus,' which itself originated from the Greek 'mágos.' This term originally referred to the priests or wise men of ancient Persia (the Magi). Because these priests were associated with deep, hidden knowledge, the word eventually evolved to mean someone who practices occult arts or performs illusions.
First recorded: 13th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'mago' used for the Three Kings (Reyes Magos)?
Historically, the 'Magi' (the original meaning of 'mago') were wise men, astrologers, or scholars from the East. They were considered knowledgeable in hidden arts, which led to the modern meaning of 'wizard' or 'magician.' In the biblical context, they are wise men.
Should I use 'mago' or 'mágico'?
Use 'mago' to talk about the person (the magician or wizard). Use 'mágico' when you want to describe something as being related to magic or having a wonderful, enchanted quality (e.g., 'un lugar mágico').