rubio
“rubio” means “blond” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
blond, fair
Also: light-colored
📝 In Action
Mi hermana es pelirroja, pero mi hermano es rubio.
A1My sister is red-haired, but my brother is blond.
Necesitas crema solar si tienes la piel rubia.
A2You need sunblock if you have fair skin.
Compró un tinte para el pelo de color rubio ceniza.
B1She bought an ash blond hair dye.
blond person
Also: blond man
📝 In Action
El rubio que está bebiendo café es mi jefe.
A2The blond guy who is drinking coffee is my boss.
Pregúntale al rubio si sabe la hora.
A2Ask the blond man if he knows the time.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: rubio
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the feminine form of 'rubio'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin term *rubeus*, which originally meant 'reddish' or 'ruddy.' Over time, in Spanish and other Romance languages, the meaning shifted from reddish-gold to light gold or fair, which is why it is used for blond hair today.
First recorded: 13th century
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 is 'rubio' different from 'dorado'?
'Rubio' is the standard word for 'blond' or 'fair' when describing hair or skin color. 'Dorado' literally means 'golden' and is used when the color is shiny, metallic, or resembles gold, often implying a richer, brighter shade than a standard 'rubio'.
Does 'rubio' only refer to hair?
No. While most common for hair, 'rubio' can also describe a light or fair complexion ('piel rubia') or even light tobacco ('tabaco rubio').