zorro
“zorro” means “fox” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
fox
📝 In Action
Vimos un zorro rojo cruzar el campo al amanecer.
A1We saw a red fox cross the field at dawn.
El zorro es conocido por su inteligencia y su cola tupida.
A2The fox is known for its intelligence and its bushy tail.
sly person, cunning man
Also: clever fellow
📝 In Action
No confíes en él, es un zorro que siempre consigue lo que quiere.
B1Don't trust him, he's a sly fox who always gets what he wants.
Nuestro abogado es un zorro; encontró la laguna legal perfecta.
B2Our lawyer is a clever fox; he found the perfect legal loophole.
Vocabulary Collections
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: zorro
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'zorro' in its figurative meaning?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The exact origin is debated, but it likely comes from the ancient Iberian word *zurro* or *zurre*, which meant 'dark' or 'dirty red,' referencing the fox's color. It has been used in Spanish since the Middle Ages.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'zorro' related to the famous masked hero, Zorro?
Yes. The character Zorro (whose name means 'fox' in Spanish) was created to represent a cunning, clever, and elusive hero who was hard for the authorities to catch. His name highlights his sly nature.
How do I know if someone is using 'zorro' as a compliment or an insult?
Context is key. If used for someone successful in business, law, or strategy, it usually means 'clever' or 'astute' (a compliment). If used after someone has played a malicious trick or cheated, it is definitely an insult meaning 'sly jerk' or 'trickster'.