cu-cú
/kuku/from spelling rules
The English phrase "peekaboo" is translated into Spanish as cu-cú.
cu-cú refers to the game played with small children. When playing the game, it is typically used as an exclamation, such as ¡Cu-cú!
Meaning: game for small children (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is an onomatopoeic representation of the sound made during the game, functioning similarly to the English word "peekaboo".
How do you pronounce it?
/kuku/
Did you know?
- The word cu-cú can also be used to describe a 'cuckoo' bird in several Spanish dialects. This connects the childhood game to the rhythmic sound of the bird's call.
- In some Latin American countries, adults might use cu-cú jokingly with other adults to signal that they have surprised someone or are hiding in a playful way.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, the game is not just a noun but a rhythmic chant. Parents often vary the melody of cu-cú to build suspense before revealing their face.
Examples in context
- ¡Cu-cú!, ¿dónde estás?Peekaboo!, where are you?
- Al bebé le encanta jugar al cu-cú.The baby loves playing peekaboo.
- Vamos a jugar al cu-cú con el niño.Let's play peekaboo with the boy.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are playing with their baby in the living room.
- María¡Mira, Mateo! Al niño le gusta el cu-cú.Look, Mateo! The boy likes peekaboo.
- MateoEs verdad, se ríe mucho cuando juegas.It's true, he laughs a lot when you play.
- María¡Cu-cú!, ¡aquí estoy!Peekaboo!, here I am!
- Mateo¡Qué divertido es verlo así!How fun it is to see him like this!
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
