compadre: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, often used to evoke a specific cultural or friendly tone.
Quick answer
What does “compadre” mean?
A close friend or companion.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A close friend or companion.
In Spanish and Latin American cultures, it specifically denotes the godfather of one's child, or a trusted male friend. In broader English usage, it can refer to a close male friend, often with connotations of camaraderie and loyalty, but retains its cultural flavor.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More commonly used in American English, especially in regions with significant Hispanic cultural influence (e.g., Southwestern US). In British English, it is rarer and may be perceived as an overt Americanism or a conscious cultural borrowing.
Connotations
In American English, it can connote a laid-back, loyal friendship, sometimes with a Southwestern or牛仔 vibe. In British English, it is more likely to be recognized as a foreign word used for stylistic effect.
Frequency
Low frequency in both varieties, but significantly higher in American English.
Grammar
How to Use “compadre” in a Sentence
[Subject] greeted his old compadre.He's more than a friend; he's my compadre.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare and informal, may be used jokingly between close colleagues.
Academic
Virtually nonexistent, except in anthropological/sociological texts discussing kinship.
Everyday
Used in informal conversation, often to add color or denote a special bond.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “compadre”
- Using it in overly formal contexts.
- Using it with someone you are not very close to, which can sound insincere.
- Pronouncing it as /ˈkɒmpədr/ instead of the three-syllable /kəmˈpɑːdreɪ/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditionally, yes, as it derives from 'padre' (father). The feminine equivalent is 'comadre', though it is far less common in general English usage.
Yes, but cautiously. It's a borrowed word and using it outside communities where it's common can sound affected or like cultural appropriation if used insincerely. It's safest used when you have a genuine, very close friendship where the term feels natural.
Both mean friend. 'Amigo' is more general. 'Compadre' implies a deeper, more loyal, almost familial bond, stemming from its original meaning as a godparent relationship.
It is informal and colloquial, but not typically classified as modern slang. It's a loanword with a specific cultural weight. In dictionaries, it's often labelled as 'informal' or 'from Spanish'.
A close friend or companion.
Compadre is usually informal, often used to evoke a specific cultural or friendly tone. in register.
Compadre: in British English it is pronounced /kɒmˈpɑːdreɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəmˈpɑdreɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “He's my amigo, my compadre. (emphatic)”
- “What's up, compadre? (casual greeting)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a COMrade who is like a PADRE (father) to you in friendship – a COM-PADRE.
Conceptual Metaphor
FRIENDSHIP IS KINSHIP (treating a close friend as a family member).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the use of 'compadre' LEAST appropriate?