pañuelo
/pah-NYWEH-loh/
handkerchief
A common meaning of pañuelo is a handkerchief, used for wiping the nose or sweat.
pañuelo(noun)
handkerchief
?small cloth for nose or sweat
tissue
?often used, but 'pañuelo de papel' is more precise for paper tissues
📝 In Action
Necesito un pañuelo, tengo un resfriado muy fuerte.
A1I need a handkerchief; I have a very bad cold.
Siempre llevo un pañuelo limpio en el bolsillo de mi chaqueta.
A2I always carry a clean handkerchief in my jacket pocket.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Reminder
Even though it ends in '-o', remember that 'pañuelo' is a masculine noun, so use 'el pañuelo' or 'un pañuelo'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Paper vs. Cloth
If you are specifically talking about disposable paper tissues, it is clearest to say 'pañuelo de papel'.
Pañuelo can also refer to a small, decorative scarf or bandana worn around the neck or head.
pañuelo(noun)
scarf
?small, decorative neck scarf or bandana
bandana
?worn on the head or neck
,neckerchief
?formal or uniform accessory
📝 In Action
Se ató el pañuelo rojo a la cabeza para protegerse del sol.
B1She tied the red bandana around her head to protect herself from the sun.
Llevaba un elegante pañuelo de seda al cuello.
B2He was wearing an elegant silk scarf around his neck.
💡 Grammar Points
Context is Key
When someone mentions a 'pañuelo' being worn, they are almost certainly referring to a fashion accessory like a small scarf or bandana, not a tissue for the nose.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Bufanda vs. Pañuelo
Mistake: "Using 'pañuelo' for a long, heavy winter scarf."
Correction: The correct word for a large, warm winter scarf is 'bufanda'. 'Pañuelo' is usually small and light.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: pañuelo
Question 1 of 2
If your friend says, 'Qué bonito pañuelo llevas en la cabeza,' what is the most likely translation?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Pañuelo de papel o simplemente pañuelo?
When speaking, most Spanish speakers will understand 'pañuelo' to mean a tissue, but if you want to be perfectly clear that you mean the disposable paper kind, say 'pañuelo de papel'.
Is 'pañuelo' just for the nose?
No! It is also used for small scarves and bandanas worn for decoration or to protect the hair/neck. Think of it as any small, versatile piece of cloth.