corderito
/koɾdeɾito/from spelling rules
The English phrase "little lamb" is translated into Spanish as corderito.
Corderito refers to a young sheep. Like in English, this term can be used affectionately as a term of endearment for a child or a loved one.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed by the root cordero (lamb) and the diminutive suffix -ito, which means "little" or "dear".
Which one should you use?
While corderito specifically refers to a little lamb, the informal term ovejito can also be used to mean "little sheep" when describing a little lamb.
How does it change in a sentence?
To refer to multiple little lambs, use the plural form corderitos.
How do you pronounce it?
/koɾdeɾito/
Did you know?
- While corderito means 'little lamb', the diminutive -ito is often used in Spanish to soften a request or a criticism, making the speaker sound less aggressive.
- While cordero means 'lamb', the word cordero is also used in Spanish to describe a person who is extremely naive or easily manipulated, similar to the English 'lamb to the slaughter'.
- The diminutive suffix -ito in corderito can be used to express affection even if the lamb is actually very large.
Examples in context
- El corderito salta en el campo.The little lamb jumps in the field.
- El corderito tiene mucho miedo.The little lamb is very afraid.
Example conversation
Elena and Daniel are looking at animals on a farm.
- Elena¿Ves a ese corderito allá?Do you see that little lamb over there?
- DanielSí, es muy tierno.Yes, it is very cute.
- ElenaDaniel, ¡corre que se escapa!Daniel, run, it's escaping!
- DanielYa voy, ya voy.I'm coming, I'm coming.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
