olímpico
“olímpico” means “Olympic” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
Olympic
Also: Olympian
📝 In Action
Mi sueño es ganar una medalla olímpica algún día.
A2My dream is to win an Olympic medal someday.
Los Juegos Olímpicos se celebran cada cuatro años.
A1The Olympic Games are held every four years.
El estadio olímpico es el más grande de la ciudad.
B1The Olympic stadium is the largest in the city.
lofty
Also: aloof, indifferent
📝 In Action
Ella me ignoró con un desprecio olímpico.
C1She ignored me with a lofty scorn.
Tiene un aire olímpico que intimida a los demás.
B2He has an aloof air that intimidates others.
Pasó de mis comentarios de forma olímpica.
C1He completely and loftily ignored my comments.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: olímpico
Question 1 of 3
Which of the following means 'Olympic medal'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'Olympicus,' which comes from the Greek 'Olympikós,' referring to Mount Olympus, the home of the Greek gods and the site of the ancient games.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'olímpico' only for sports?
Mostly, yes! However, it is also used in literature or sophisticated conversation to describe someone who is very aloof or superior.
What is the difference between 'olímpico' and 'olimpiada'?
'Olímpico' is a describing word (adjective), while 'olimpiada' is the name of the event itself (noun).
Do I capitalize 'olímpico'?
Only if it's part of a formal proper name, like 'Comité Olímpico Internacional.' Otherwise, use lowercase.