rico
“rico” means “wealthy” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
wealthy, rich
Also: affluent
📝 In Action
Su familia es rica porque tienen una gran empresa de tecnología.
A2His family is rich because they own a large technology company.
Quiero ser rico y viajar por todo el mundo.
B1I want to be wealthy and travel all over the world.
delicious, yummy
Also: flavorful
📝 In Action
¡Qué rico está este café! ¿Qué le pusiste?
A1How delicious this coffee is! What did you put in it?
La comida mexicana es muy rica en especias.
A2Mexican food is very rich in spices (flavorful).
rich
Also: deep, fertile
📝 In Action
La zona costera es rica en biodiversidad.
B1The coastal area is rich in biodiversity.
Me gusta mucho el color azul oscuro, se ve muy rico.
B2I really like the dark blue color, it looks very rich (deep).
attractive, hot
Also: gorgeous
📝 In Action
Esa actriz está muy rica. Todos la admiran.
B2That actress is very attractive/hot. Everyone admires her.
No puedo concentrarme, mi compañero de trabajo está súper rico.
C1I can't concentrate, my coworker is super hot.
🔀 Commonly Confused With
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "rico" in Spanish:
affluent→attractive→deep→delicious→fertile→flavorful→gorgeous→hot→🗣️ Practice in a Tongue Twister
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: rico
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'rico' to describe a permanent state?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from a Germanic root, possibly Frankish *riki, meaning 'powerful' or 'ruler.' It entered the Spanish language through Medieval Latin, evolving to refer to someone of high status, which later included financial wealth. The meaning 'delicious' is a semantic extension, implying something of high quality or value.
First recorded: c. 11th century (as 'ricco')
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if 'rico' means 'wealthy' or 'delicious'?
The easiest way is by checking the verb used! If they use the verb 'ser' (Ella es rica), they mean she is wealthy. If they use the verb 'estar' (La sopa está rica), they mean the soup tastes good. This is a crucial rule for 'ser' vs. 'estar'.
Can I use 'rico' to describe things other than food and people?
Yes! You can use it to describe something that is abundant or full of desirable things. For example, 'una biblioteca rica en libros' (a library rich in books) or 'un terreno rico en hierro' (land rich in iron).