Inklingo

maletín

mah-leh-TEEN/maleˈtin/

maletín means briefcase in Spanish (Professional carrying case for documents).

briefcase, small suitcase

Also: case, kit
NounmA2
Mexico
A closed, rectangular, dark brown professional leather briefcase with a sturdy handle and two silver metal clasps, resting on a plain background.

📝 In Action

El abogado olvidó su maletín con los documentos importantes en el taxi.

A2

The lawyer forgot his briefcase with the important documents in the taxi.

Necesito un maletín resistente para llevar mis herramientas de trabajo.

B1

I need a durable case to carry my work tools.

El maletín de primeros auxilios siempre debe estar accesible.

B1

The first aid kit should always be accessible.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • portafolio (portfolio)
  • estuche (case (for pencils, glasses, etc.))

Common Collocations

  • maletín de cueroleather briefcase
  • abrir el maletínto open the briefcase/case
  • maletín de emergenciaemergency kit

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "maletín" in Spanish:

small suitcase

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: maletín

Question 1 of 1

If you are packing for a two-week trip, which item would you most likely use?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
calcetínjardínpatín
📚 Etymology

The word *maletín* is the diminutive form of the Spanish word *maleta* (suitcase), created by adding the ending -ín, which means 'small.' *Maleta* itself comes from the French word *mallette*.

First recorded: Mid-19th century (in its current form)

Cognates (Related words)

French: mallettePortuguese: maletim

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'maletín' and 'maleta'?

*Maleta* is the general word for a large suitcase or travel bag. *Maletín* is the diminutive (smaller) version, specifically referring to a small, often rigid case like a briefcase, a doctor's bag, or a specialized kit.