Spanish Conversation · Level 85
60 words
Spanish word
hidalgo
Pronunciation
IPA/iˈðalɣo/
Meaning
- masculine nounnobleman
Example
Un hidalgo entró en la taberna.
A nobleman entered the tavern.
More examples
Aunque era un hidalgo pobre, habló con orgullo.
Although he was a poor nobleman, he spoke proudly.
Core concept
Country gentleman of the lower nobility.
Common phrases
ser un hidalgo
be a nobleman
un hidalgo pobre
a poor nobleman
Similar words
señor: Respectful title used to address an adult male in ordinary conversation.
caballero: Man who behaves with courtesy and chivalry, emphasizing honorable conduct.
don: Traditional title prefixed to a personal name to convey respect.
Definition in Spanish
Persona perteneciente a la nobleza baja sin título heredado, vinculada a un linaje o prestigio local.
Word origin
From Old Spanish fijo 'son' plus d'algo 'of something', which contracted to hidalgo to denote a person of noble descent without an inherited title.
Usage tips
- Frequently appears in literature (for example Don Quixote) and can carry an ironic or romanticized sense rather than literal high rank.
Other meanings
- country gentlemannoun
Opposites
- plebeyocommonernoun
Related words
- hidalguíagentry statusnoun