chico: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowInformal, colloquial; sometimes poetic/archaic
Quick answer
What does “chico” mean?
A small or young man or boy.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small or young man or boy.
A colloquial term for a boy or young man, often used with familiarity or affection. In botany, refers to a fruit-bearing tree (Manilkara zapota) known for its sapodilla fruit.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Virtually unknown in British English for the 'boy' meaning. In American English, used in regions with Spanish influence (Southwest, California, Florida) and in cultural contexts.
Connotations
In AmE, implies a Hispanic cultural connection or is used to sound folksy/regional. Can be mildly dated or literary.
Frequency
Extremely low in BrE. Low to moderate in specific AmE regional dialects.
Grammar
How to Use “chico” in a Sentence
Direct address: "Chico, come here!"As a nickname: "Everyone called him Chico."Modified by adjective: "a frightened chico"Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chico” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Rare, might appear in anthropological or cultural studies discussing Latino communities.
Everyday
Informal, mostly in American English in areas with Spanish influence.
Technical
In botany/horticulture for Manilkara zapota (sapodilla tree).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chico”
- Using it in formal contexts.
- Using it outside of an American/Spanish-cultural context where it sounds affected.
- Mispronouncing /ʃ/ as in 'Chicago'; it's /tʃ/ (CH).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a loanword from Spanish used primarily in informal American English, especially in regions with Hispanic cultural influence. It is not part of core, global English vocabulary.
No. The Spanish feminine equivalent is 'chica'. In English usage, 'chico' is exclusively masculine.
It can be, if used by someone outside the person's cultural group, as it may be perceived as stereotyping or overly familiar. As a term of address among friends or within the community, it is usually affectionate.
'Boy' is the standard, neutral term. 'Chico' adds a specific cultural flavour (Hispanic) and is markedly informal. It is a stylistic choice rather than a direct synonym.
A small or young man or boy.
Chico is usually informal, colloquial; sometimes poetic/archaic in register.
Chico: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtʃiːkəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtʃikoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"The chico with the guitar" (descriptive, not a fixed idiom)”
- “"From chico to grande" (patterned on Spanish, not standard English idiom)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CHICk (young bird) that is a bOy -> CHICO, a young boy.
Conceptual Metaphor
YOUTH IS SMALLNESS / THE YOUNG ARE LINGUISTICALLY FOREIGN (borrowed term for a native concept).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'chico' MOST likely to be used naturally in English?