Spanish slang is rich and varied, not least for the simple fact that the language is spoken in so many corners of the world.
In pretty much any language, one of the most important pieces of slang is how we address our friends.
In Spanish, there is no shortage of terms used for friend in their slang, whether you’re in Spain, Latin America, Central America—everywhere has their own terms.
Let’s look into as many of these terms as we can.
Spanish Slang For Friend
Acere
“Acere” is a common Cuban slang word used to refer to a close friend, similar to “dude” or “bro” in English.
While it can be used to get someone’s attention, it’s mostly a friendly term used between peers.
The word has roots in the Efik language from Africa, reflecting Cuba’s rich linguistic history.
Over time, it became an integral part of Cuban street slang, often heard in casual conversations.
Examples in sentences:
- “¿Qué bolá, acere? How’s it going, man?”
- “Ese acere siempre me ayuda cuando lo necesito.” (That friend always helps me when I need it.)
- “Acere, vamos a la playa este fin de semana.” (Dude, let’s go to the beach this weekend.)
- “No te preocupes, acere. Todo va a estar bien.” (Don’t worry, bro. Everything will be fine.)
- “Los aceres del barrio siempre se cuidan entre sí.” (The guys from the neighborhood always look out for each other.)
Alero
In Central American Spanish, “alero” refers to a good friend, someone you can rely on. It’s a warm and informal way to refer to a close companion, much like “bro” or “mate” in English.
Interestingly, the literal meaning of “alero” in standard Spanish is “roof eaves.” The slang meaning is unique to Central America, though its exact origins remain uncertain. It likely developed from the idea of something or someone who provides cover and support—just like a good friend.
Examples in sentences:
- “Mi alero siempre está ahí cuando lo necesito.” (My buddy is always there when I need him.)
- “¿Qué onda, alero? ¿Vamos por unas cervezas?” (What’s up, dude? Want to grab some beers?)
- “No hay mejor alero que tú, siempre me apoyas en todo.” (There’s no better friend than you; you always support me.)
- “Los aleros de la infancia son los mejores.” (Childhood friends are the best.)
- “Ese man es mi alero, siempre nos metemos en locuras juntos.” (That guy is my buddy; we’re always getting into crazy situations together.)
Boludo
In Argentina, “boludo” is a widely used slang term, but its meaning depends on the context. It can be an insult, calling someone foolish or clumsy, but among friends, it’s often just a casual, almost affectionate way to say “dude” or “mate.”
The word originally comes from the term for foot soldiers sent into battle with little protection—essentially, cannon fodder. Over time, it evolved into its modern slang usage.
Examples in sentences:
- “Dale, boludo, apurate que llegamos tarde.” (Come on, dude, hurry up or we’ll be late.)
- “No seas boludo, eso es una mala idea.” (Don’t be an idiot, that’s a bad idea.)
- “Che, boludo, viste el partido anoche?” (Hey, man, did you see the game last night?)
- “Ese boludo se olvidó las llaves otra vez.” (That fool forgot his keys again.)
- “Solo un boludo haría algo así.” (Only an idiot would do something like that.)
Bro
While not originally Spanish slang, “bro” has been widely adopted in Spanish-speaking countries, especially among younger generations. It carries the same meaning as in English—short for “brother,” but often used casually to refer to a friend, whether close or not.
Unlike some Spanish-specific slang terms for “friend,” “bro” is universally understood across different regions, making it one of the most versatile slang terms in modern Spanish conversation.
Examples in sentences:
- “Gracias por ayudarme, bro.” (Thanks for helping me, bro.)
- “¿Qué pasa, bro?” (What’s up, bro?)
- “Ese bro siempre está de buen humor.” (That bro is always in a good mood.)
- “Vamos al cine, bro.” (Let’s go to the movies, bro.)
- “No te preocupes, bro, yo te cubro.” (Don’t worry, bro, I got you.)
Camarada
“Camarada” is widely understood in Spanish-speaking countries and has a slightly formal or old-fashioned feel. It originally referred to fellow soldiers or comrades-in-arms, but today it simply means a friend or companion.
Due to its historical ties to military and political groups, “camarada” is sometimes associated with solidarity and close bonds between people who share a cause or purpose.
Examples in sentences:
- “Mi camarada siempre me apoya en todo.” (My friend always supports me in everything.)
- “Nos conocemos desde niños, somos camaradas de toda la vida.” (We’ve known each other since childhood, we’re lifelong friends.)
- “Ese hombre es un verdadero camarada, nunca te deja solo.” (That man is a true friend, he never leaves you alone.)
- “Vamos, camarada, tenemos mucho que hacer.” (Let’s go, comrade, we have a lot to do.)
- “Ella y yo somos camaradas en el trabajo.” (She and I are work buddies.)
Carnal
“Carnal” is a term that originally referred to blood relatives, particularly siblings, but it has evolved to include close friends. It emphasizes a deep bond, much like calling someone “bro” in English.
The word comes from the Spanish “carne” (meat) and ultimately from the Latin “carnalis,” meaning “of the flesh.” This highlights the strong, almost familial connection between people who call each other “carnal.”
Examples in sentences:
- “Siempre cuento con mi carnal para todo.” (I always count on my bro for everything.)
- “¿Qué onda, carnal? ¿Cómo estás?” (What’s up, bro? How are you?)
- “Mi carnal y yo crecimos juntos en el mismo barrio.” (My bro and I grew up together in the same neighborhood.)
- “Ese carnal siempre está ahí cuando lo necesito.” (That guy is always there when I need him.)
- “Vamos, carnal, hay que celebrar.” (Let’s go, bro, we have to celebrate.)
Causa
In Peru, “causa” is a common way to refer to a friend, similar to saying “mate” or “buddy.” While its literal meaning in Spanish is “lawsuit,” its slang use is completely unrelated.
The exact origins of this slang term are uncertain, but some theories suggest it may have been influenced by the English word “cousin,” evolving into a friendly term of address over time.
Examples in sentences:
- “Oye, causa, ¿cómo te ha ido?” (Hey, buddy, how’s it going?)
- “Mi causa siempre me apoya en todo.” (My friend always supports me in everything.)
- “Vamos a la playa, causa.” (Let’s go to the beach, mate.)
- “Ese causa sabe dónde encontrar buena comida.” (That guy knows where to find good food.)
- “No te preocupes, causa, yo te ayudo.” (Don’t worry, buddy, I’ll help you.)
Chamo
In Venezuela, “chamo” is commonly used to refer to a friend, similar to saying “dude” in English. It can also refer to children or young people in general.
Interestingly, the word is believed to come from the French “chameau,” meaning “camel.” The exact reason for this linguistic shift is unclear, but today, “chamo” is a widely used and recognized term in Venezuelan slang.
Examples in sentences:
- “Epa, chamo, ¿qué haces?” (Hey, dude, what are you up to?)
- “Ese chamo siempre está de buen humor.” (That guy is always in a good mood.)
- “Vamos, chamo, que llegamos tarde.” (Come on, buddy, we’re running late.)
- “Mi chamo cumplió diez años hoy.” (My kid turned ten today.)
- “No te preocupes, chamo, yo te ayudo.” (Don’t worry, pal, I’ll help you.)
Che
“Che” is one of the most distinctive slang terms from Argentina. It’s used to get someone’s attention, much like saying “hey!” in English. Though it’s primarily reserved for close friends, it can occasionally be used with colleagues as well.
The exact origin of “che” is unclear, but it is often linked to “ce,” a Spanish exclamation similar to “hey!” It has become so closely associated with Argentina that it can even be used to refer to an Argentine person in other Spanish-speaking countries.
Examples in sentences:
- “Che, ¿dónde vas?” (Hey, where are you going?)
- “Che, ¿me das una mano?” (Hey, can you give me a hand?)
- “¿Qué hacés, che?” (What’s up, dude?)
- “Ese che siempre tiene buenas ideas.” (That guy always has good ideas.)
- “Che, no te olvides de llamar.” (Hey, don’t forget to call.)
Chero
“Chero” is widely used in both El Salvador and Honduras to denote a close friend. The term originates from the French “cher,” used to address someone as dear or beloved, and it has been adapted into local slang as an affectionate way to refer to a friend. In everyday conversation, calling someone “chero” conveys warmth, familiarity, and a sense of camaraderie.
This term is popular in casual contexts and among peers, reflecting the close bonds shared in these communities.
Examples in sentences:
- “Hey, chero, how have you been?”
- “My chero always has my back.”
- “Let’s hang out later, chero.”
- “I’m meeting up with my cheros this weekend.”
- “Thanks, chero, I really appreciate your help.”
Compadre
“Compadre” is a widely used term in Mexico and other parts of Latin America. While its literal meaning refers to the bond between a father and the godfather of his children, it has evolved to commonly mean a close friend, particularly a best friend. This term is often used informally to show affection and trust, indicating someone you consider as close as family.
The word “compadre” has its origins in military language, much like the term “comrade,” emphasizing a close, brotherly relationship. Over time, it has become synonymous with the term for a dear and trusted friend.
Examples in sentences:
- “I’m going out with my compadre tonight.”
- “Thanks for the help, compadre. You’re the best.”
- “We’ve been through a lot together, compadre.”
- “I’ll bring the drinks, compadre, don’t worry.”
- “He’s like a brother to me, my compadre.”
Cuate
“Cuate” is a term used broadly across several Spanish-speaking countries, including Mexico, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Honduras, and Bolivia. It is most commonly used to refer to a close friend or “buddy,” making it a casual and affectionate term for someone you share a strong bond with.
The term “cuate” is believed to have been borrowed from a Nahuan language, showing how indigenous influences have shaped modern Spanish slang in different regions.
Examples in sentences:
- “I’m meeting my cuate for lunch later.”
- “Don’t worry, cuate, I’ve got your back.”
- “That’s my cuate right there, always supporting me.”
- “We’ve been best cuates since we were kids.”
- “Come on, cuate, let’s go have some fun!”
El Mío
In Venezuela, “el mío” is a common and affectionate way to refer to a very close friend, meaning something like “my mate” or “my buddy.” While it literally translates to “mine” in Spanish, it takes on a special meaning in this context, indicating a strong, trusted bond.
Though “el mío” is often used to refer to a romantic partner in other Spanish-speaking countries, in Venezuela, it’s more commonly used among friends to express a close, familial-like relationship.
Examples in sentences:
- “I’m hanging out with el mío this weekend.”
- “That’s el mío, the person who’s always there for me.”
- “We’ve been best friends for years, he’s el mío.”
- “I trust el mío with everything, he’s my closest friend.”
- “Hey, el mío, want to grab some food later?”
Fren
In Panama, “fren” is a casual and commonly used slang term for a friend. It can refer to any kind of friend, regardless of how long you’ve known them. While it may sound familiar to internet users due to its similarity to memes, it’s a genuine part of Panamanian colloquial speech.
The word “fren” is a shortened version of the English word “friend,” showcasing how English slang has influenced Spanish in some regions.
Examples in sentences:
- “Hey, fren, let’s hang out later!”
- “I’m going to the party with my fren this weekend.”
- “That’s my fren, we go way back.”
- “You’re such a good fren, thanks for always having my back.”
- “I met a new fren at work today, they seem cool.”
Gancho
In Chile, “gancho” is a slang term for a close friend, someone you are closely connected to, almost like a companion you cannot be separated from. The literal translation of “gancho” is “hook,” and it is thought that this term may symbolize the bond that “hooks” friends together, suggesting a strong, unbreakable connection.
The origin of “gancho” as slang for friend is not entirely clear, but the metaphor of being attached by a “hook” to someone close seems fitting for its meaning.
Examples in sentences:
- “He’s my gancho, we’ve been through everything together.”
- “I’ll call my gancho, he’ll know what to do.”
- “I met my gancho when we were kids, and we’re still tight.”
- “No one understands me like my gancho does.”
- “If you need help, call your gancho—they’ve always got your back.”
Hermano
“Hermano” literally translates to “brother” in Spanish, but much like in English, the term can be used informally to refer to a close friend. This usage of “hermano” highlights the deep bond shared between friends, much like siblings. The term “hermana” can also be used in the same way for a close female friend, translating to “sister.”
The term “hermano” originates from Latin, with the literal meaning tied to familial relationships. Over time, it has evolved into a slang term that signifies a bond akin to brotherhood or sisterhood among friends.
Examples in sentences:
- “He’s my hermano, I trust him more than anyone.”
- “We’ve been through thick and thin together, he’s my hermano.”
- “I met him when we were kids—he’s like a hermano to me.”
- “Don’t worry, hermano, I’ve got your back.”
- “My hermana is always there for me, just like a true sister.”
Llave
“Llave” translates to “wrench” in standard Spanish, but in the context of slang, it refers to a close friend, often used in familiar or casual settings. The term “llave” can also appear as “llaveria” or “llavero,” with the same meaning.
The exact origin of this usage is unclear, but it might be a playful twist on the idea of a “tool” being a valuable, dependable item—just as a good friend is someone you can rely on. The playful tone suggests that friends, much like tools, are essential and always there when needed.
Examples in sentences:
- “He’s my llave, I can always count on him.”
- “You’re my llave, don’t forget it!”
- “We’ve been best friends for years—he’s my llave for life.”
- “If you need anything, you know who to call—my llave!”
- “She’s my llave, we’ve been through everything together.”
Mae
“Mae” is a Costa Rican slang term that’s often used in a casual, impersonal way, similar to the English term “dude.” It’s not necessarily reserved for close friends, and you might hear it used with anyone, whether familiar or not. While it’s most commonly used in Costa Rica, it’s not widespread outside of the region.
The origin of “mae” is unclear, though it may have evolved from other regional terms or colloquial expressions. Regardless of its precise origins, it’s generally a relaxed way to refer to someone, without the deeper connection that terms like “bro” or “compadre” might carry.
Examples in sentences:
- “What’s up, mae?”
- “That’s crazy, mae!”
- “Come on, mae, you know that’s not true.”
- “Hey, mae, do you want to hang out later?”
- “I can’t believe it, mae—this is unreal!”
Mano
“Mano” literally translates to “hand,” but in slang, it’s a shortening of “hermano,” meaning “brother.” It’s a common term of endearment or camaraderie used in many parts of Latin America, similar to calling someone “bro” or “brother” in English. A diminutive version of this term, “manito,” is often used for younger friends or those you are particularly close with.
Despite its literal translation, “mano” has nothing to do with hands in this context. Instead, it carries the same affectionate and familiar connotation as “hermano,” signaling a bond between friends.
Examples in sentences:
- “What’s up, mano?”
- “Hey, mano, can you help me out?”
- “Manito, let’s go grab something to eat!”
- “I trust you like a mano.”
- “Don’t worry about it, mano, I’ve got your back.”
Ñaño
“Ñaño” literally translates to “year” in Spanish, but in certain regions like Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and to a lesser extent Argentina, it is used to refer to a close, long-time friend. It carries the sense of someone you’ve known for many years, forming a deep, almost familial bond.
The use of “ñaño” reflects the strong ties between friends who have shared a significant amount of time together, almost like calling someone your “lifelong friend” or “bro.” It’s a term rooted in long-term companionship and trust.
Examples in sentences:
- “What’s up, ñaño? Long time no see!”
- “He’s my ñaño, we’ve known each other since childhood.”
- “Thanks for always having my back, ñaño.”
- “We’ve been through a lot together, my ñaño.”
- “You’re not just a friend, you’re my ñaño.”
Pana
“Pana” is a slang term commonly used in Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Nicaragua, and other Latin American countries to refer to a close friend. While the literal translation of “pana” means “corduroy,” the slang version carries the meaning of a very close, trusted friend—someone you can rely on.
The word is believed to have originated from an indigenous term for family, which reflects the close bond it signifies. “Pana” is often used in casual settings, emphasizing a sense of camaraderie and friendship.
Examples in sentences:
- “I’m meeting my pana later for some drinks.”
- “He’s my pana, we’ve been friends since high school.”
- “Thanks for the help, pana, I really appreciate it.”
- “Don’t worry, pana, I’ve got your back.”
- “We’re going to the concert together, just me and my pana.”
Pana fuerte
“Pana fuerte” is a regional slang term from Puerto Rico that takes the already common term “pana” (friend) and adds “fuerte,” meaning “strong.” This makes the phrase translate to a very strong or close friend—someone you have a deep bond with. While “pana” is used across many Latin American countries, “pana fuerte” is unique to Puerto Rican Spanish.
It emphasizes the strength of the friendship, implying that this person is a trusted, loyal companion—almost like a “brother” or “ride-or-die” friend. The literal translation of “pana fuerte” could be something like “strong friend,” but its true meaning lies in the emotional weight it carries.
Examples in sentences:
- “He’s my pana fuerte; I know I can count on him no matter what.”
- “We’ve been through thick and thin, he’s my pana fuerte for life.”
- “Only my pana fuerte would help me out in a situation like this.”
- “She’s more than just a friend—she’s my pana fuerte.”
- “That’s the kind of loyalty you get from a pana fuerte.”
Panadería
While “panadería” literally translates to “bakery” in Spanish, in Venezuela, the term has taken on a more social meaning. It refers to a place where friends gather, often in a casual setting, to hang out or chat. The term emerged in the 1950s, likely due to the popularity of young people meeting up in bakeries to socialize, which led to a broader cultural use of the word to represent friendship groups.
Today, “panadería” is not just about bread and pastries but a symbolic term for camaraderie. It reflects the importance of informal meeting spots for socializing and bonding, where friends, particularly younger ones, form tight-knit groups.
Examples in sentences:
- “We’re going to the panadería to catch up with everyone later.”
- “Our panadería was always full of laughter and good times.”
- “Don’t forget to invite the whole panadería to the party!”
- “He’s a part of my panadería—we’ve been close friends for years.”
- “The panadería is where we met, and it’s where we’re still friends today.”
Panaful
Similar to “pana,” which is used across several Spanish-speaking countries, “panaful” is a more intense version of the term, specifically from the Dominican Republic. The word “panaful” suggests someone who is not just a friend, but a very great and affectionate one, filled with friendliness and warmth. While its exact origins are unclear, it likely stems from the same root as “pana” but emphasizes a deeper level of friendship.
Using “panaful” implies a strong, long-lasting bond, and it’s often used to refer to someone who is more than just a casual acquaintance but a true, reliable friend who will always have your back.
Examples in sentences:
- “He’s my panaful, always there when I need him.”
- “We’ve been friends since childhood, and he’s definitely my panaful.”
- “She’s the kind of panaful who would never let you down.”
- “After all these years, we’re still panafuls, through thick and thin.”
- “That’s my panaful, we share everything and have each other’s backs.”
Panita
Similar to how “pana” means a close friend, “panita” is a more affectionate, diminutive version of the term. The word is used in Puerto Rico and parts of Ecuador, and it carries the sense of “little friend” or someone who is cherished, but still a very close companion. It’s often used to refer to a dear, beloved friend in a more playful and intimate way.
The word derives from “pana,” which means friend, and by adding the diminutive “-ita,” it softens the term, creating an endearing version. It reflects a bond of friendship that is both close and tender.
Examples in sentences:
- “She’s my panita, always there to cheer me up.”
- “We’ve been panitas since we were kids.”
- “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back, panita.”
- “He’s not just my pana, he’s my panita—my little friend.”
- “We’re panitas forever, through all the ups and downs.”
Parcero
“Parcero” is a popular term used primarily in Colombia and Ecuador, and although its literal translation means “landlord,” the term has evolved into a friendly way to refer to someone you’re close to. It ultimately derives from the Portuguese word “parceiro,” meaning “partner” or “companion.” Over time, it has come to denote a strong friendship and can also be used to refer to someone from the same country, almost like saying “fellow countryman.”
In Colombia, it’s a very casual and affectionate way to address a friend, whether they’re someone you’ve known for years or just a new acquaintance you feel a strong connection to.
Examples in sentences:
- “Eres mi parcero, siempre nos apoyamos.”
- “Vamos, parcero, ¡es hora de celebrar!”
- “Aunque no lo conozca mucho, es mi parcero porque es de la misma ciudad.”
- “No te preocupes, parcero, yo te cubro.”
- “Un buen parcero nunca te deja en la calle.”
Socio
“Socio” is a term commonly heard in Peru, Colombia, Cuba, and Ecuador. Its literal meaning refers to a business partner or associate, but in some Spanish-speaking countries, it has taken on a more personal and informal meaning, referring to a close friend. In these regions, “socio” is used to denote someone who is not just a business partner but someone you trust deeply, similar to calling someone your “mate” or “buddy.”
In Peru and Colombia, it’s common for close friends to address each other as “socio,” especially in casual or affectionate contexts. It reflects a strong bond of friendship, much like a business partnership based on trust and mutual respect.
Examples in sentences:
- “¡Qué pasa, socio! ¿Cómo estás?”
- “Siempre te he considerado mi socio, no solo en los negocios.”
- “Ese es mi socio de toda la vida.”
- “Te lo agradezco mucho, socio, me salvaste.”
- “Es como un hermano para mí, mi socio de confianza.”
Tío
In Spain, “tío” is a common and casual term used to refer to friends or acquaintances. While the literal meaning is “uncle,” it is widely used in everyday language to mean something like “guy” or “dude.” It is a very informal and friendly way of addressing someone, regardless of whether they are related to you or not.
This usage of “tío” is a quintessential part of Spanish slang and can be heard frequently among younger people or in casual settings. Interestingly, while it has the same meaning in Spain, in Mexico, “tío” is much more likely to be used in its literal sense, referring to a relative.
Examples in sentences:
- “¡Ey, tío! ¿Cómo va todo?”
- “Este es mi amigo, el tío Juan.”
- “Tío, ¡qué sorpresa verte aquí!”
- “Vamos, tío, que se hace tarde.”
- “Ese tío es el mejor, siempre sabe qué hacer.”
Vale
“Vale” is one of the most common slang terms you’ll hear in Spain, especially among younger generations. It’s equivalent to saying “okay,” “alright,” or “cool” in English. It’s used in a variety of contexts, from agreeing to something to showing understanding or simply acknowledging a statement.
It’s an informal expression that you’ll likely hear everywhere—from the streets to casual conversations, and even in TV shows or movies. While it’s mostly used in Spain, it can sometimes be understood in other Spanish-speaking countries due to its frequent usage in media.
Examples in sentences:
- “¿Vamos al cine? – Vale, ¡vamos!”
- “Te espero a las 7, ¿vale?”
- “¡Vale, entiendo!”
- “Eso está claro, vale.”
- “Vale, te llamo luego.”
Valedor
The term “valedor” is often used to describe a person who is not only a close friend but also someone with high regard for their integrity and loyalty. In Colombia and Venezuela, it conveys a sense of respect and trust, and it’s used affectionately to refer to a friend you admire.
Originally, “valedor” came from a term meaning “protector,” signifying someone who takes care of or stands up for others. Over time, this evolved to describe a person who is seen as both trustworthy and deserving of admiration, especially in the context of friendships.
Examples in sentences:
- “Ese tipo es un valedor, siempre me apoya.”
- “Gracias por estar ahí, valedor.”
- “Es mi valedor, siempre puedo contar con él.”
- “Tienes que conocer a Juan, es un valedor.”
- “Mi valedor me ayudó cuando más lo necesitaba.”
Viejo
While “viejo” typically means “old” in Spanish, in some Latin American countries, it has taken on a friendly, informal meaning. It’s often used to refer to a close friend, much like saying “old friend” in English. It can also be used in a similar way to “mate” or “dude.”
In addition to being a term of endearment for friends, “viejo” is also commonly used to refer to one’s father. However, in casual conversation, it can simply mean a good friend or companion.
Examples in sentences:
- “¿Cómo estás, viejo? Hace tiempo que no nos vemos.”
- “Ese viejo siempre me hace reír.”
- “Vamos a tomar algo, viejo.”
- “Viejo, necesito un consejo.”
- “Mi viejo y yo siempre jugamos al fútbol los domingos.”
What’s clear, then, is that every version of Spanish across the word has dozens of their own slang terms for friend.
From the southern tip of Chile to the furthest reaches of Mexico, as well as in every region of Spain and any other Spanish-speaking nation, you are never short of words that mean friend.
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Founder -
@PollyWebster
Polly Webster is the founder of Foreign Lingo and a seasoned traveler with a decade of exploration under her belt.
Over the past 10 years, she has journeyed to numerous countries around the globe, immersing herself in diverse cultures, traditions, and languages.
Drawing from her rich experiences, Polly now writes insightful articles about travel, languages, traditions, and cultures, sharing her unique perspectives and invaluable tips with her readers.