crack
/ˈkɾak/
The Spanish word for "baller" is crack.
The term crack is used to describe someone who is a standout performer or an expert in their field, particularly in sports.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Calling someone a crack is an informal, colloquial way to express admiration for their skill.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkɾak/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, calling someone a crack can be used ironically to tease a friend who has just made a clumsy mistake.
- The word crack in Spanish shares an etymological root with the German word 'Krach', which refers to a loud noise or a crash.
- In Spain, you can use crack as a friendly, informal way to address a male peer, similar to calling someone 'champ' or 'ace' in English.
Examples in context
- Juan tiene mucho pisto, siempre se pasea en carros lujosos y vive en una mansión.Juan has a lot of money, he always drives luxurious cars and lives in a mansion.
Example conversation
Mateo and María are watching a basketball game.
- MateoMira cómo juega ese jugador.Look at how that player plays.
- MaríaEs un crack, no falla ningún tiro.He is a baller, he doesn't miss a single shot.
- MateoMe gustaría jugar así de bien.I would like to play that well.
- MaríaTú también puedes ser un crack.You can be a baller too.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry crack, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries crack, CC BY-SA 4.0.
