muchacho
“muchacho” means “boy” in Spanish (A young male person, typically a child or teenager.).
boy
Also: lad, young man, guy
📝 In Action
El muchacho está jugando en el parque.
A1The boy is playing in the park.
Vi a un grupo de muchachos hablando en la esquina.
A2I saw a group of boys talking on the corner.
Es un buen muchacho, siempre ayuda a su familia.
B1He's a good lad, he always helps his family.
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Quick Quiz: muchacho
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the old Spanish word 'mocho', which meant 'cut' or 'shorn'. It likely started as a nickname for a young boy with short-cropped hair, a common style for youths, and eventually came to mean 'boy' in general.
First recorded: Around the 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'muchacho', 'chico', and 'niño'?
'Niño' usually refers to a young child, up to about age 12. 'Muchacho' and 'chico' are for older kids, teenagers, or young adults. 'Chico' is more common in Spain, while 'muchacho' is very widespread in Latin America. In many situations, you can use them interchangeably.
Is it okay to call a waiter 'muchacho'?
Yes, especially if the waiter is young and you are older. Saying '¡Oye, muchacho!' is a common and informal way to get a young man's attention. It's generally not considered rude, just informal.