Spanish word

apodo

Pronunciation

IPA/aˈpoðo/

Meaning

  • masculine nounnickname

Example

Me gusta el apodo que tienes.

I like that nickname you have.

Illustration for apodo (nickname)

More examples

¿Quién te puso ese apodo?

Who gave you that nickname?

Core concept

Short familiar name based on a personal trait, action, or a diminutive of the given name.

Common phrases

  • tener un apodo

    have a nickname

  • poner un apodo

    give a nickname

  • apodo cariñoso

    affectionate nickname

Similar words

mote: Playful short name used among friends to tease or show light affection.
sobrenombre: Informal name given by others and adopted socially without official status.

Definition in Spanish

Sobrenombre breve, frecuentemente formado a partir de rasgos, acciones o diminutivos, usado en situaciones informales por afecto, confianza o burla.

Word origin

The noun apodo is historically primary in Spanish, and the verb apodar 'to give a nickname' is derived from that noun.

Usage tips

  • Because apodo easily shifts between affection and mockery, speakers often avoid it with strangers and in formal situations.

Other meanings

  • handlenoun

Opposites

Related words

  • apodarnicknameverb
  • apodadonicknamedadjective

Word lists with this word