sombrero
“sombrero” means “hat” in Spanish (General term for headwear, often implying a brim).
hat
Also: wide-brimmed hat, fedora
📝 In Action
Necesito un sombrero nuevo para la playa.
A1I need a new hat for the beach.
Se quitó el sombrero cuando entró a la iglesia.
A2He took off his hat when he entered the church.
El mariachi llevaba un sombrero muy elegante y grande.
B1The mariachi wore a very elegant and large hat.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sombrero
Question 1 of 2
Which English phrase best captures the figurative meaning of the Spanish idiom 'Quitarse el sombrero'?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Spanish root *sombra* (shade, shadow), plus the suffix *-ero*, which denotes a tool or object related to the root word. So, a 'sombrero' is literally 'a thing that creates shade'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'sombrero' only refer to the big Mexican hat?
No. While the iconic, wide-brimmed Mexican hat is formally called a 'sombrero de charro,' the word 'sombrero' in Spanish simply means 'hat' and applies to fedoras, sun hats, and many other styles.
How do I know if I should use 'sombrero' or 'gorra'?
If the headwear has a full brim that goes all the way around (like a Panama hat or a cowboy hat), use 'sombrero'. If it has only a visor or peak in the front (like a baseball cap), use 'gorra'.