mariscal
“mariscal” means “marshal” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
marshal
Also: field marshal
📝 In Action
El mariscal ordenó la retirada de las tropas.
B2The marshal ordered the retreat of the troops.
Fue ascendido a mariscal tras la gran victoria.
B2He was promoted to marshal after the great victory.
quarterback
Also: playmaker
📝 In Action
El mariscal de campo lanzó un pase perfecto.
B1The quarterback threw a perfect pass.
Necesitamos un nuevo mariscal para dirigir el equipo.
B1We need a new playmaker to lead the team.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: mariscal
Question 1 of 2
What is a 'mariscal de campo' in the context of American football?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From an old Germanic word 'marhskalk', which combined 'marh' (horse) and 'skalk' (servant). It originally meant someone who looked after horses in a stable, eventually becoming a title for high-ranking officials.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'mariscal' to talk about a Western movie marshal?
No. For a law enforcement marshal, you should use 'alguacil' or 'comisario'. 'Mariscal' is only for high-ranking soldiers or sports players.
Is it used in Spain?
Yes, but mostly in historical contexts. In Spain, they rarely use 'mariscal de campo' for American football; they often just use the English word 'quarterback'.