puto
puto is a slang term used in some Spanish-speaking regions as a derogatory slur for a gay man.
Additionally, the related French term chieur can be used to describe someone who is a troublemaker or constantly causing annoyance.
Did you know?
- While puto is a Spanish slur, the French equivalent pute is historically derived from the Old French pute, which itself came from the Latin putidus, meaning 'stinking'.
- Because puto is not a native French word, a French speaker might hear it and think you are saying pute, which is a very common and aggressive slur for a prostitute.
- Because French does not have a native word puto, a person in a multilingual city like Marseille might use the Spanish word specifically to signal their belonging to a diverse, Mediterranean street culture.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are discussing a movie they just watched.
- HugoLe personnage a dit puto pour insulter l'autre.The character said puto to insult the other person.
- ManonOui, c'est un mot vraiment haineux.Yes, it is a really hateful word.
- HugoJe ne savais pas que c'était si vulgaire.I didn't know it was that vulgar.
- ManonC'est une insulte homophobe très grave.It is a very serious homophobic slur.
