moño
/ˈmoɲo/
The English phrase hair bun is translated into Spanish as moño.
In the context of hairstyles, moño refers specifically to a hair bun. It is a common way to describe hair that has been pulled back and coiled into a round shape at the top or back of the head.
What does it mean word for word?
The word moño can literally mean a bow, a knot or a bun of hair.
Which one should you use?
While moño is used for a hair bun, it can also refer to a decorative bow or a knot in a piece of fabric depending on the context. The plural form is moños for hair buns.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the term rodete is used to describe a hair bun.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈmoɲo/
Did you know?
- The term moño is thought to be a linguistic fossil, possibly descending from a Paleo-Hispanic word meaning 'bump' or 'lump'.
- In Spain, the term rodete is used for a hair bun, which comes from the word rodete meaning a small wheel.
- Depending on the region, asking for a moño could lead you to a stationery shop for a ribbon bow rather than a hair salon for a hairstyle.
Examples in context
- Para la reunión de negocios, debes llevar el cabello recogido en un moño elegante y discretoFor the business meeting, you should wear your hair in an elegant and discreet bun.
- Para la ceremonia, te recomiendo hacer un chongo alto y sofisticadoFor the ceremony, I recommend you create a high and sophisticated bun.
- ¡Qué lindo moñito te has hecho con el cabello! Estás adorableWhat a cute little bun you've created with your hair! You look adorable.
- Para la boda, deberías lucir un elegante rodete a la altura de la nucaFor the wedding, you should rock an elegant bun at the nape of your neck.
- Ella lleva un moño muy elegante.She is wearing a very elegant hair bun.
- Me gusta cómo te queda ese moño.I like how that hair bun looks on you.
Example conversation
Elena is getting ready for a formal event.
- Elena¿Me queda bien este moño?Does this hair bun look good on me?
- MateoSí, Elena, te ves muy profesional.Yes, Elena, you look very professional.
- ElenaGracias, me tomó mucho tiempo hacer el moño.Thanks, it took me a long time to make the hair bun.
- MateoVale la pena, se ve perfecto.It's worth it, it looks perfect.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry moño, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries moño, CC BY-SA 4.0.
