náutico
/ˈnautiko/
The English word nautical is translated into Spanish as náutico.
náutico is used to describe things that are of, relating to or characteristic of sailing, sailors or the sea. In some contexts, it can be used interchangeably with marino, which primarily translates to marine or seafaring.
Meaning: of, relating to, or characteristic of sailing, sailors, or the sea (adj)
Which one should you use?
While náutico specifically refers to things related to sailing and nautical activities, marino is often used to mean marine or seafaring. In certain coastal areas, the alternative marítimo may also be used instead of náutico or marino.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain coastal areas, marítimo may be used as an alternative to náutico or marino.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, náutico must agree with the noun it describes. It changes to náutica for feminine singular nouns, náuticos for masculine plural nouns and náuticas for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈnautiko/
Did you know?
- The word náutico shares a common ancestor with the English word 'astronaut', which comes from the same Greek root for 'sailor' combined with 'star'.
- The word náutico is used in the phrase centro náutico, which often refers to a social yacht club rather than just a place for sailing lessons.
- If you want to buy a 'nautical' chart or map, you might find yourself looking for a carta náutica rather than using the word mapa.
Examples in context
- Estudié ingeniería náutica en la universidad.I studied nautical engineering at the university.
- El club náutico organiza diferentes eventos para los amantes del mar.The nautical club organizes various events for sea lovers.
- Las cartas náuticas son fundamentales para los navegantes.Nautical charts are essential for sailors.
- Siempre lleva ropa náutica cuando está en el puerto.He always wears nautical clothing when he's at the harbor.
- regata náuticaNautical regatta
- equipamiento marinoMarine equipment
- El mapa tiene un diseño náutico.The map has a nautical design.
- Me gusta mucho el estilo náutico.I really like the nautical style.
Example conversation
Sofía and Mateo are looking at decor for a new boat.
- Sofía¿Te gusta este cuadro náutico?Do you like this nautical painting?
- MateoSí, es muy bonito para el barco.Yes, it is very beautiful for the boat.
- SofíaMateo, combina bien con el color azul.Mateo, it goes well with the blue color.
- MateoTienes razón, lo vamos a comprar.You are right, we are going to buy it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nautical” translations and entries náutico, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries náutico, CC BY-SA 4.0.
