chaperón
/t͡ʃapeˈɾon/masculine
The English word "chaperone" is translated into Spanish as chaperón. Wiktionary also lists carabina.
Meaning: older person who accompanies younger people to ensure good behaviour (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| chaperón | /t͡ʃapeˈɾon/ | masculine |
| carabina | /kaɾaˈbina/ | feminine |
A chaperone is an older person who accompanies younger people to ensure good behaviour.
Which one should you use?
The masculine form is chaperón. The word carabina is also listed as a feminine form.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries like Mexico or Argentina, the word chaperón/chaperona may be used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine form of the noun is chaperona.
How do you pronounce it?
/tʃapeˈɾon/
Did you know?
- Historically, the word carabina was linked to 'corpse bearers' during times of plague. It evolved from the idea of a mounted rifleman before becoming a term for a chaperone.
- In Spanish, the concept of a chaperón is often linked to the historical custom of el paseo, where young women walked in public only under strict supervision to protect their reputation.
- The term chaperón is a direct loanword from French, reflecting the historical influence of French social etiquette on Spanish upper-class customs.
Examples in context
- Necesito un acompañante para el evento de mañana.I need a chaperone for tomorrow's event.
- El profesor designó a un supervisor para el viaje de campo.The teacher appointed a chaperone for the field trip.
- Mi hermana actuará como acompañante en nuestra visita a la ciudad.My sister will act as a chaperone on our city tour.
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are discussing a school dance.
- DanielNecesitamos un chaperón para la fiesta.We need a chaperone for the party.
- LucíaYo puedo ser el chaperón si quieres.I can be the chaperone if you want.
- DanielPero tú eres muy joven, Lucía.But you are too young, Lucía.
- LucíaTengo suficiente experiencia para ayudar.I have enough experience to help.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “chaperone” translations and entries chaperón, carabina, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries carabina, CC BY-SA 4.0.
