cocodrilo
/kokoˈdɾilo/
The English word "croc" (referring to a plastic slip-on shoe) is translated into Spanish as cocodrilo.
In this context, cocodrilo is used to refer to a plastic slip-on shoe.
Meaning: plastic slip-on shoe (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some parts of Latin America, the term yacaré is used to refer to specific types of crocodiles.
How do you pronounce it?
/kokoˈdɾilo/
Did you know?
- The word cocodrilo shares a common ancestor with the English word 'crocodile', rooted in the Greek word for 'grain' or 'pebble' because of the animal's textured skin.
- Spanish uses the word cocodrilo to describe the animal regardless of whether it is a true crocodile or an alligator, unlike English which distinguishes them.
- In some regions, calling a shoe a cocodrilo might be confused with 'crocodile skin' leather, which is a high-end luxury material.
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are getting ready to go to the beach.
- Alejandro¿Dónde está mi cocodrilo verde?Where is my green croc?
- MaríaEstá debajo de la mesa, Alejandro.It is under the table, Alejandro.
- AlejandroYa lo vi, gracias María.I see it now, thanks María.
- MaríaDate prisa o llegaremos tarde.Hurry up or we will be late.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cocodrilo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cocodrilo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
