porro
“porro” means “joint” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
joint
Also: spliff, thug/gang member
📝 In Action
Había un olor a porro en la calle.
B1There was a smell of a joint in the street.
Él no sabe liar un porro correctamente.
B2He doesn't know how to roll a joint correctly.
Los porros protestaron frente a la universidad.
C1The student gang members protested in front of the university.
porro
📝 In Action
Bailamos un porro en la fiesta folclórica.
B2We danced a 'porro' at the folk festival.
El porro es un ritmo tradicional del Caribe colombiano.
C1Porro is a traditional rhythm from the Colombian Caribbean.
La orquesta tocó un porro muy alegre.
B2The orchestra played a very cheerful 'porro'.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: porro
Question 1 of 3
If someone in Madrid asks you for a 'porro', what are they likely asking for?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The slang for 'joint' likely comes from the resemblance to a 'puerro' (leek). The musical term comes from a type of drum used in the Caribbean.
First recorded: 20th century (slang), 19th century (music)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'porro' offensive?
It's not a swear word, but it is slang for drugs, so it carries a social stigma in many contexts.
Can I use 'porro' for a cigarette?
No, for a normal tobacco cigarette, use 'cigarrillo' or 'piti'.
How do I say 'stoner' in Spanish?
The most common word derived from this is 'porrero'.