diablo: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1informal, proper noun (when referring to the game)
Quick answer
What does “diablo” mean?
A reference to the devil or a demon.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A reference to the devil or a demon.
Commonly used as a proper noun for the title of a popular video game series; can describe something fiendishly difficult, dangerous, or evil in character.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Usage is equally low in both varieties outside of the game title.
Connotations
In both, the primary connotation is the video game. The Spanish word may appear in names of foods (e.g., spicy sauces) or places.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency as a common noun. High recognition as a proper noun due to the game's popularity.
Grammar
How to Use “diablo” in a Sentence
Proper Noun (capitalized)the diablo (noun)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “diablo” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The dish had a diablo-level of spice.
- He described the maths problem as diablo.
American English
- She ordered the diablo wings.
- That hike is diablo hard.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in the gaming industry discussing the 'Diablo' IP.
Academic
Rare, may appear in religious or cultural studies discussing Spanish/Mexican folklore.
Everyday
Almost exclusively in reference to the video game series. 'Diablo sauce' on a menu.
Technical
In gaming discourse and reviews.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “diablo”
- Using 'diablo' as a common noun in general English (it sounds affected or borrowed).
- Misspelling as 'Diabolo' (which is a juggling toy).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a Spanish loanword occasionally used in English, but its most frequent modern use is as the proper noun for the video game series.
'Diablo' refers to the devil or the game. 'Diabolo' is a juggling prop consisting of a spool manipulated on a string.
Yes, informally and metaphorically (e.g., 'That exam was diablo'), but this is stylistic and not standard. 'Diabolical' is the more standard adjective.
In American English: dee-AH-blo. In British English: dee-AB-low. Both are acceptable for the game title.
A reference to the devil or a demon.
Diablo is usually informal, proper noun (when referring to the game) in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “deal with the diablo”
- “a diablo in disguise”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the game 'Diablo' where you fight the devil. 'Diablo' = Devil in a game.
Conceptual Metaphor
EVIL IS A DESTRUCTIVE FORCE / DIFFICULTY IS A DEMON.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'diablo' MOST commonly used in modern English?