puto
What does puto mean? puto is a Spanish severe that translates to “fucking (intensifier) / male whore / faggot” in English.
Literal Translation
male whore / faggot
Meaning & Usage
"fucking (intensifier) / male whore / faggot"
Male prostitute; homophobic slur; or intensifier similar to 'fucking'.
Examples in the Wild
¡Puto tráfico! (Fucking traffic!) vs ¡Eres un puto! (You're a faggot/male whore - offensive)
When to Use It
Context
- Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
- Only among very close friends who share this register
Avoid
- Professional or formal settings
- Around elders or authority figures
- Public spaces — will cause genuine offense
- Mixed company or unfamiliar social groups
- Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations
Cultural Context
In Mexico, commonly used as an intensifier ('puto tráfico' = fucking traffic) but still vulgar. As a noun for a person, implies male prostitution or homosexuality (offensive). In LGBTQ+ communities, sometimes reclaimed. The difference between 'puta' (female) and 'puto' (male) usage is significant - 'puto' is more likely to be used as a general intensifier while retaining homophobic undertones.
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.
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“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.
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“for fuck's sake / godfuckingdammit”
An exclamation of extreme frustration, surprise, or anger. It vividly expresses that a situation has gone completely wrong.
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“to fuck / to shag”
To have sexual intercourse. It is the absolute standard vulgar verb for sex in Spain.
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“shit”
Universal expletive expressing frustration, disappointment, or describing something of poor quality. Mild to moderate offense depending on context.
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“motherfucker / holy fuck”
The ultimate expression of pain, anger, or amazement in Chile and Peru.
cojones
“balls / nerve / guts”
Testicles; metaphorically courage, nerve, or audacity. Also used in countless expressions indicating emphasis or frustration.
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“fucking snitch / rat bastard”
A highly offensive term for someone who informs on others, gossips, or snitches, combined with a maternal insult.