pistolero
“pistolero” means “gunman” in Spanish (a person who uses a gun, often a criminal).
gunman, gunslinger
Also: hitman, marksman
📝 In Action
El pistolero entró silenciosamente en el salón.
A2The gunslinger entered the saloon quietly.
En las películas del oeste, siempre hay un pistolero solitario.
B1In Western movies, there is always a lone gunslinger.
La policía busca al pistolero responsable del robo.
B2The police are looking for the gunman responsible for the robbery.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pistolero
Question 1 of 3
Which of these people is most likely to be called a 'pistolero'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the word 'pistola' (gun) combined with the common job/role ending '-ero.' The word 'pistola' itself is thought to come from an old Czech word for a whistle or a pipe, which later described the shape of early firearms.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 'pistolero' always a bad guy?
Not necessarily, especially in movies. While it often means a criminal or hitman, it can also describe a heroic gunslinger in a Western story.
What is the difference between a 'pistolero' and a 'tirador'?
A 'tirador' is a general term for a 'shooter' or 'marksman' (like in the Olympics). A 'pistolero' specifically implies someone who carries a handgun for combat or crime.
Can I use 'pistolero' for a woman?
Strictly speaking, 'pistolero' is masculine. For a woman, you would use 'pistolera,' though this entry focuses on the masculine form.