nene
/NEH-neh/
baby boy
Nene often means "baby boy" or "toddler."
nene(noun)
baby boy
?infant or toddler
,little boy
?young male child
kid
?colloquial term for a child
📝 In Action
El nene de mi hermana ya camina solo.
A1My sister's little boy already walks by himself.
Tienes que cambiarle el pañal al nene.
A2You have to change the baby's diaper.
Los nenes están jugando en el parque.
A2The kids are playing in the park.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine/Feminine Pair
Remember that 'nene' refers to a male child. The feminine form, 'nena,' is used for a little girl.
⭐ Usage Tips
Affectionate Diminutive
'Nene' is often softer and more affectionate than 'niño,' much like calling someone 'little one' in English.
Nene can also be used as a term of endearment, like "sweetheart" or "honey."
nene(noun)
sweetheart
?term of endearment for a partner
,honey
?affectionate address
guy
?colloquial term for a young man
📝 In Action
¿Qué quieres de cenar, nene?
B1What do you want for dinner, honey?
Hola, nene. ¿Cómo te fue en el trabajo?
B2Hello, sweetheart. How was work?
⭐ Usage Tips
Use with Caution
This word is very intimate. Only use it with people you know well, like family members, partners, or very close friends. Using it with strangers can sound overly familiar or even slightly condescending.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: nene
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'nene' as a term of endearment for an adult?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'nene' the same as 'niño'?
'Nene' and 'niño' both mean 'boy,' but 'nene' is generally more affectionate, informal, and often specifically used for babies or toddlers. 'Niño' is the more neutral, standard term for a child up to age 12.
Can I use 'nene' to refer to a girl?
No. 'Nene' is strictly masculine. To refer to a girl or woman affectionately, you must use the feminine form: 'nena.'