pecador
“pecador” means “sinner” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
sinner
Also: wrongdoer
📝 In Action
Dice la Biblia que todos somos pecadores.
A2The Bible says that we are all sinners.
El pecador pidió perdón por sus errores en la iglesia.
B1The sinner asked for forgiveness for his mistakes in the church.
No es fácil ser un santo en un mundo de pecadores.
B2It is not easy to be a saint in a world of sinners.
sinful
Also: naughty
📝 In Action
Tuvo un pensamiento pecador.
B2He had a sinful thought.
Este mundo pecador necesita esperanza.
B2This sinful world needs hope.
Ese chocolate tiene un aspecto muy pecador.
C1That chocolate looks very sinful (tempting).
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pecador
Question 1 of 3
If a whole group of men and women are considered 'sinners,' what word should you use?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'peccator,' which comes from 'peccare,' meaning to stumble or make a mistake.
First recorded: 12th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'pecador' a very religious word?
Yes, its primary use is religious. However, it can be used metaphorically to mean someone who breaks rules or even jokingly when talking about someone who 'cheats' on a diet.
Can 'pecador' mean 'fisherman'?
No! That is a very common mistake. 'Fisherman' is 'pescador' (with an 's'). 'Pecador' (no 's') is someone who sins.
Is it offensive to call someone a 'pecador'?
It depends on the context. In a religious setting, it's a standard term. In a casual setting, it might sound old-fashioned or overly dramatic unless used jokingly.

