Messi
name
Argentines say Messi as "MEH-see", with a clear Spanish "e" and a hard "s". They also call him Leo or la Pulga, "the flea".
Meaning: surname of the footballer Lionel Messi (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| Messi | name |
| la Pulga | nickname |
| Leo | first name |
How do you pronounce it?
In Spanish every vowel is pure, so Messi does not have the English "ess" ending. The stress is on the first syllable: ME-ssi.
When do people say it?
Lionel Messi was born in Rosario and grew up playing for Newell's Old Boys. Many fans simply call him Leo, as if he were a friend.
Did you know?
- Messi's nickname la Pulga refers to his small size when he was young.
Examples in context
- Messi es el mejor.Messi is the best.
- Hoy juega la Pulga.The Flea plays today.
- Leo metió un golazo.Leo scored a great goal.
Example conversation
Two friends, Nacho and Agustín, watch a match on TV in Rosario.
- NachoMirá, Messi tiene la pelota.Look, Messi has the ball.
- AgustínDale, Leo, que lo hacés.Come on, Leo, you can do it.
- Nacho¡Gol! ¡Qué jugador!Goal! What a player!
