pico
/ˈpiko/
pico is the Spanish word for beak.
The primary meaning of pico is the pointed part of a bird's mouth used for eating and grooming. It is also used to describe the peak or summit of a mountain. In certain Latin American dialects, the phrase un pico can be used colloquially to refer to a small amount or a tiny bit of something.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, pico can mean peak or summit.
Which one should you use?
While pico refers to a peak or summit, in casual conversations you can also use la cima interchangeably to talk about a peak.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American dialects, using un pico to mean a small amount is a colloquial expression.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of pico is picos.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈpiko/
Did you know?
- In some Latin American countries, the phrase pico de gallo refers to a fresh salad of chopped tomatoes, onions and peppers. Its name translates to 'rooster's beak', referring to the colorful appearance of the ingredients.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, dar un pico is a colloquial way to say 'to give a quick peck' or a short kiss on the lips.
- The Spanish word pico is a cognate of the English word 'beak', sharing a common ancestor in the Proto-Celtic word *bekkos.
Examples in context
- El pájaro tiene un pico muy largo.The bird has a very long beak.
- Ese colibrí tiene un pico delgado.That hummingbird has a thin beak.
- El loro usa su pico para jugar.The parrot uses its beak to play.
Example conversation
Elena and Daniel are looking at a bird in a park.
- Elena¿Viste qué pequeño es el pico de ese ave?Did you see how small that bird's beak is?
- DanielSí, es impresionante lo delicado que es.Yes, it is impressive how delicate it is.
- ElenaParece que está buscando semillas con su pico.It looks like he is looking for seeds with his beak.
- DanielEs un animal muy eficiente.He is a very efficient animal.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry pico, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pico, CC BY-SA 4.0.
