pintoresco
“pintoresco” means “picturesque” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
picturesque
Also: scenic, quaint
📝 In Action
Visitamos un pueblo pintoresco en las montañas.
A2We visited a picturesque village in the mountains.
La vista desde el hotel es muy pintoresca.
B1The view from the hotel is very scenic.
Sus calles estrechas y pintorescas atraen a muchos turistas.
B2Its narrow and quaint streets attract many tourists.
quirky
Also: colorful, odd
📝 In Action
Mi abuelo es un hombre muy pintoresco.
B2My grandfather is a very quirky man.
Contó una anécdota pintoresca sobre su viaje.
C1He told a colorful anecdote about his trip.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pintoresco
Question 1 of 3
How would you describe a small, beautiful mountain village that looks like it's from a storybook?
📚 More Resources
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Italian word 'pittoresco', which means 'suitable for a painting' or 'in the style of a painter'. It is deeply connected to the world of art.
First recorded: 18th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'pintoresco' to describe a person's looks?
Usually, it describes their overall personality or style rather than just being 'pretty'. It means they are a 'character'.
Is 'pintoresco' a compliment?
Mostly, yes! It suggests charm and beauty. However, when describing a person, it can sometimes be used slightly sarcastically to mean 'weird'.
Does it mean the same thing as 'colorido'?
Not exactly. 'Colorido' just means something has a lot of colors. 'Pintoresco' means it has a specific charm that makes it look like a piece of art.