seco
“seco” means “dry” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
dry
Also: arid, withered
📝 In Action
Necesito colgar la ropa para que se seque. Está toda mojada.
A1I need to hang the clothes so they dry. They are all wet.
El desierto de Atacama es el lugar más seco del mundo.
A2The Atacama Desert is the driest place in the world.
La toalla está seca, puedes usarla.
A1The towel is dry, you can use it.
curt, cold
Also: blunt
📝 In Action
Su respuesta fue muy seca, casi ni me miró.
B1His response was very curt; he barely even looked at me.
Es una persona muy seca; nunca sonríe.
B2She is a very cold person; she never smiles.
dry
Also: unsweetened
📝 In Action
Quiero una copa de cava, pero tiene que ser brut seco.
B2I want a glass of sparkling wine, but it must be brut dry.
El pastel estaba demasiado seco, le faltaba crema.
B1The cake was too dry; it lacked cream.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: seco
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'seco' to describe a personality trait?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *siccus*, which meant 'dry.' The meaning has been consistent for thousands of years, referring to a lack of liquid or moisture.
First recorded: Before the 10th 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 do I say 'to dry' using the root of 'seco'?
The corresponding verb is 'secar' (to dry). You would use it like: 'Voy a secar los platos' (I am going to dry the dishes).
Is 'seco' always used with 'estar' or 'ser'?
'Seco' is an adjective, so it is used with both. Use 'ser' for permanent characteristics (El clima de mi ciudad es seco) and 'estar' for temporary states (Mi garganta está seca).