tíos
“tíos” means “uncles” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
aunts and uncles
Also: relatives
📝 In Action
Todos mis tíos vinieron a la boda, incluyendo mi tía Marta.
A1All my aunts and uncles came to the wedding, including my Aunt Marta.
¿Vienen tus tíos este fin de semana?
A2Are your aunt and uncle coming this weekend?
guys, folks
Also: people
📝 In Action
¡Qué pasada, tíos! ¿Vamos al cine?
B1That's awesome, guys! Shall we go to the cinema?
Los tíos de la mesa de al lado están haciendo mucho ruido.
B2The people at the next table are making a lot of noise.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "tíos" in Spanish:
uncles→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: tíos
Question 1 of 2
If someone from Madrid says, '¡Mira esos tíos!', what is the most likely meaning?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Late Latin word *thius*, which itself came from the Greek word *theios*, meaning 'maternal uncle.' Over time, it developed the meaning of 'guy' or 'person' in Spanish, particularly in Spain.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish
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
Can I use 'tíos' to mean 'guys' outside of Spain?
While Spanish speakers will understand the literal meaning of 'uncles,' using 'tíos' as slang for 'guys' is highly regional to Spain. In Latin America, using it this way would sound strange or might not be understood. Stick to 'chicos' or 'muchachos' in Latin American contexts.
How do I refer only to my aunts, without including any uncles?
If the group is exclusively female, you must use the feminine plural form: 'tías'.