puta
What does puta mean? puta is a Spanish strong that translates to “whore / bitch / fucking (as intensifier)” in English.
Literal Translation
whore / prostitute
Meaning & Usage
"whore / bitch / fucking (as intensifier)"
Prostitute or promiscuous woman; used as general expletive or intensifier. When combined with 'madre' becomes extremely severe.
Examples in the Wild
¡Hijo de puta! (Son of a bitch!) / Está de puta madre. (It's fucking awesome - Spain only)
When to Use It
Context
- Informal settings where profanity is accepted
- Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
Avoid
- Professional or formal settings
- Around elders or authority figures
- Mixed company or unfamiliar social groups
- Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations
Cultural Context
Universal across Spanish-speaking world but severity varies. Used alone, it's offensive but common. Combined with family members (especially mother), it becomes one of the worst insults possible. 'De puta madre' ironically means 'fucking awesome' or 'excellent' in Spain. 'Puto' (masculine) is used in Mexico as a general slur or homophobic insult. The phrase 'hijo de puta' (son of a whore/bitch) is universally recognized as highly offensive.
More in Spanish 🇪🇸
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“wanker / lazy bastard / flake”
Someone who masturbates a lot; figuratively, a supremely lazy person or someone who talks a lot but never follows through.
comemierda
“arrogant prick / stuck-up bitch / full of shit”
A deeply arrogant, conceited person who thinks they are better than everyone else, or alternatively, a complete fool.
la concha de la lora
“for fuck's sake / godfuckingdammit”
An exclamation of extreme frustration, surprise, or anger. It vividly expresses that a situation has gone completely wrong.
follar
“to fuck / to shag”
To have sexual intercourse. It is the absolute standard vulgar verb for sex in Spain.
mierda
“shit”
Universal expletive expressing frustration, disappointment, or describing something of poor quality. Mild to moderate offense depending on context.
conchatumare / CTM
“motherfucker / holy fuck”
The ultimate expression of pain, anger, or amazement in Chile and Peru.
concha
“cunt / pussy”
Seashell in Spain and most of Latin America; vulgar slang for female genitalia in Argentina, Uruguay, Chile, Colombia, and parts of Mexico.
cojones
“balls / nerve / guts”
Testicles; metaphorically courage, nerve, or audacity. Also used in countless expressions indicating emphasis or frustration.