marica
“marica” means “dude / mate / man” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
dude / mate / man
Also: silly / foolish person
📝 In Action
¡Oye marica, ¿qué más?!
C1Hey dude, what's up?!
No sea tan marica, eso es fácil de hacer.
C1Don't be such a dummy, that is easy to do.
Estábamos hablando con los maricas del barrio.
C2We were talking with the guys from the neighborhood.
faggot
Also: sissy / coward
📝 In Action
Le gritaron cosas feas como 'marica'.
B2They shouted ugly things at him like 'faggot'.
No llores, no seas marica.
B2Don't cry, don't be a sissy.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "marica" in Spanish:
faggot→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: marica
Question 1 of 3
In which country is 'marica' used most commonly as a friendly greeting?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the female name 'María' combined with the diminutive suffix '-ica'. It originated as a way to mock men by comparing them to women.
First recorded: 16th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use this word if I am learning Spanish?
Generally, no. Because it can be a hateful slur or a friendly greeting depending entirely on the country and the people involved, it is too risky for most learners to use correctly.
Is 'mariquita' the same thing?
No. 'Mariquita' literally means 'ladybug,' though it can also be a softer (but still rude) way to call a boy 'girly'.
Can women say 'marica'?
Yes, in Colombia and Venezuela, women use it frequently with each other and with male friends as a filler word.