compa
/kompa/from spelling rules
The Spanish word for homeboy is compa.
compa is used as a term of endearment or a casual way to address a male friend, similar to 'buddy' or 'pal' in English. It can also be used as a standalone noun to refer to a person from one's circle or hometown.
Meaning: male from one's hometown (pron)
What does it mean word for word?
compa is a shortened, colloquial form of compadre, which literally means 'co-father', referring to the relationship between a child's father and his godfather.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
compa is highly informal and is used primarily among friends or peers in casual settings.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American regions, especially in Mexico and Central America, the informal word cuate can be used to mean 'buddy' or 'homeboy'. In Spain, the colloquial phrase colega is used to refer to a close friend. You may also encounter the slang term amigo de la cuadra to mean 'friend from the block' or 'neighborhood friend'.
How do you pronounce it?
/kompa/
Did you know?
- In some cultures, the relationship of compadrazgo is a formal social contract used to build political and social alliances through the choosing of godparents.
- The term cuate, another way to say 'homeboy' in Mexico, is a direct descendant of the Nahuatl word for 'twin'.
- While compa is often a short form of compadre, it can also be a clipping of compañero, which means 'companion' or 'partner'.
Examples in context
- Juan es mi amigo de la cuadra. Crecimos juntos y siempre hemos sido inseparables desde que éramos niños.Juan is my friend from the block. We grew up together, and we have always been inseparable since we were kids.
- Mi pata Pedro siempre está dispuesto a ayudarme en lo que necesite. Es un verdadero hermano para mí.My buddy Pedro is always ready to help me with anything I need. He's a true brother to me.
- Él es mi compa de la infancia.He is my childhood homeboy.
- Saludé a un compa de mi pueblo.I greeted a homeboy from my town.
- Mi compa viene de la misma ciudad.My homeboy comes from the same city.
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are talking about an old friend at a cafe.
- Daniel¿Conoces a ese hombre?Do you know that man?
- LucíaSí, es un compa de mi pueblo.Yes, he is a homeboy from my town.
- Daniel¡Qué coincidencia!What a coincidence!
- LucíaEs un buen hombre.He is a good man.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries compa, CC BY-SA 4.0.
