poncho
/ˈpont͡ʃo/
The Spanish word for poncho is poncho.
A poncho refers to a waterproof garment with a hood.
Meaning: waterproof garment with hood (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Argentina, particularly in the Andean region, the term poncho is widely used, both formally and informally. The word manta is commonly used in Peru, especially in the Andean regions, to refer to a poncho.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈpontʃo/
Did you know?
- In traditional Andean cultures, the patterns and colors of a poncho serve as a visual code to identify a person's specific village and social rank.
- The word poncho is an etymological traveler from the Andes to the world. It originated from the Quechua word punchu, which literally translated to 'square cloth'.
- While English speakers often associate a poncho with rain gear, in many Spanish-speaking regions it is a woven wool garment used for warmth.
Examples in context
- El poncho es una prenda típica de muchas culturas latinoamericanasThe poncho is a traditional garment in many Latin American cultures
- Durante las festividades, hombres y mujeres lucen hermosos jorongosDuring the festivities, men and women wear beautiful ponchos
- Es una prenda que se usa para cubrirse del frío y tiene una abertura para la cabezaIt's a garment used to cover oneself from the cold and has an opening for the head
- Necesito un poncho para la lluvia.I need a poncho for the rain.
- El poncho es impermeable y muy útil.The poncho is waterproof and very useful.
- Ella lleva un poncho azul.She is wearing a blue poncho.
Example conversation
Elena and Daniel are preparing for a hiking trip in the mountains.
- Elena¿Tienes tu poncho para la excursión?Do you have your poncho for the hike?
- DanielSí, guardé el poncho en mi mochila.Yes, I put the poncho in my backpack.
- ElenaPerfecto, va a llover mucho hoy.Perfect, it is going to rain a lot today.
- DanielMenos mal, no quiero mojarme.It's a good thing, I don't want to get wet.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry poncho, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries poncho, CC BY-SA 4.0.
