tesoro
/teh-SOH-roh/
treasure
The most common meaning of tesoro is 'treasure,' referring to hidden wealth or a valuable collection.
tesoro(Noun)
treasure
?hidden wealth or valuable collection
,trove
?a valuable discovery
treasury
?a collection of resources or valuable items (less common usage)
📝 In Action
Los piratas escondieron el tesoro en una isla remota.
A2The pirates hid the treasure on a remote island.
Este manuscrito es un tesoro histórico incalculable.
B1This manuscript is an incalculable historical treasure.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Masculine
Even though 'treasure' can be abstract, 'tesoro' is always a masculine noun and uses 'el' or 'un'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Figurative Use
You can use 'tesoro' to describe anything extremely valuable to you, like a beautiful memory or a favorite book.
Tesoro can also be used as a term of endearment, meaning 'darling' or 'sweetheart.'
tesoro(Noun)
darling
?term of endearment
,sweetheart
?term of endearment
dear
?affectionate address
📝 In Action
¡Hola, tesoro! ¿Cómo te fue en la escuela?
A1Hello, darling! How was school?
No te preocupes, mi tesoro, todo estará bien.
A2Don't worry, my sweetheart, everything will be fine.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Consistency
Even when calling a girl or woman 'tesoro,' the word itself remains masculine: 'Tú eres mi tesoro.' (You are my treasure/darling).
❌ Common Pitfalls
Using the Feminine Form
Mistake: "Using *tesora* when referring to a woman."
Correction: The word *tesoro* does not change gender when used as a term of endearment. Always use *tesoro* for both men and women.
⭐ Usage Tips
Affectionate Use
This term is very common in Spain and Latin America, especially used by parents, grandparents, and romantic partners. It shows deep affection.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: tesoro
Question 1 of 2
¿Cuál es la mejor traducción de 'Mi abuela guarda este anillo como un tesoro'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'tesoro' for a woman or girl?
Yes, absolutely! While 'tesoro' is a masculine noun ('el tesoro'), it is used universally as a loving nickname for people of any gender, just like English speakers might say 'my rock' or 'my sunshine'.
Is 'tesoro' used only for people?
No. Its original and primary meaning is 'physical treasure' (like hidden gold). It is also commonly used metaphorically for non-physical things that are greatly valued, such as 'el tesoro de la sabiduría' (the treasure of wisdom).