amiguito
/amiˈɡito/
The Spanish phrase for "little friend" is amiguito.
Amiguito is a term used to describe a child who is a friend or a small animal that one is fond of. It is used to express affection, endearment or to indicate physical smallness.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed from amigo (friend) and the diminutive suffix -ito (little/small).
Which one should you use?
While amigo simply means friend, amiguito adds a layer of affection or refers to the person or animal being small.
How does it change in a sentence?
The masculine form amiguito changes to the feminine amiguita when referring to a female child or a female animal. The plural form is amiguitos for a group of male friends or a mixed-gender group.
How do you pronounce it?
/amiˈɡito/
Did you know?
- In certain Latin American contexts, amiguito is used sarcastically to describe a fake friend or someone who is being deceptive.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, calling an adult amiguito can be perceived as patronizing or condescending, suggesting the person is inferior or being treated like a child.
- Depending on the country, amiguito can serve as a playful euphemism for a romantic partner in casual settings.
Examples in context
- Hola, peque, ¿te gustaría ser mi compañerito en la fiesta de cumpleaños?Hello, peque, would you like to be my little companion at the birthday party?
- Ese perro es un amiguito muy fiel.That dog is a very faithful little friend.
- Hola, mi amiguito, ¿cómo estás?Hello, my little friend, how are you?
- El conejo es un amiguito muy tierno.The rabbit is a very cute little friend.
Example conversation
Mateo is showing his new kitten to Sofía.
- Sofía¿Qué tienes en las manos, Mateo?What do you have in your hands, Mateo?
- MateoEs un gatito, mi nuevo amiguito.It is a kitten, my new little friend.
- Sofía¡Es precioso! Me encanta tu amiguito.He is precious! I love your little friend.
- MateoGracias, Sofía, es muy juguetón.Thanks, Sofía, he is very playful.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry amiguito, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
