reo
“reo” means “prisoner” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
prisoner
Also: convict, defendant
📝 In Action
El reo fue escoltado por dos policías.
B2The prisoner was escorted by two police officers.
Los derechos del reo deben ser respetados.
B2The convict's rights must be respected.
Se sentó en el banquillo de los reos.
C1He sat in the defendant's dock.
guilty
📝 In Action
Él es reo de sus propias palabras.
C1He is a victim of his own words (guilty of what he said).
Se sentía reo de un pecado antiguo.
C2He felt guilty of an old sin.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: reo
Question 1 of 3
If you are watching a news report about a trial, what does 'el reo' refer to?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'reus', which described a person involved in a legal case (the accused).
First recorded: 13th Century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'reo' a bad word?
No, it is not a swear word or slang. It is a formal, legal term for a prisoner or convict.
Can I use 'reo' to say I feel guilty about eating too much cake?
Not really. That would sound very dramatic and strange. Use 'culpable' for personal feelings of guilt.
What is the difference between 'reo' and 'acusado'?
'Acusado' is specifically the person accused of a crime during a trial. 'Reo' can mean the person during the trial OR after they have been convicted and sent to prison.