padrastro
/paˈdɾastɾo/
The English word "stepdad" is translated into Spanish as padrastro.
Padrastro is a noun used to refer to the stepfather. In certain literary or cultural contexts, it may carry a negative connotation of a "wicked stepfather," which is similar to how the term can be perceived in English.
Meaning: stepfather (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
To form the plural padrastros (stepfathers), you add -s to the end of the word.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈdɾastɾo/
Did you know?
- While padrastro refers to a stepfather, the suffix -astro can also be used in Spanish to create adjectives that mean 'ugly' or 'coarse', mirroring the 'irregular' nature of the relationship.
- While 'padrastro' is the grammatically correct term, it is often much more common to hear the phrase 'el marido de mi madre' (my mother's husband) to avoid the social weight of the word.
- In Latin American soap operas, the reveal that a character is actually a padrastro rather than a biological father is a common plot device used to trigger dramatic familial conflict.
Examples in context
- Él es mi padrastro.He is my stepdad.This sentence is useful for identifying someone as your padrastro.Tatoeba #2396339 by hayastan, translation #2758465 by CH
- Nuestro papá de crianza siempre nos apoya en todo lo que hacemos.Our stepdad always supports us in everything we do.
- Mi padrastro es muy amable.My stepfather is very kind.
- Ella trabaja con su padrastro.She works with her stepfather.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are talking about family members at a cafe.
- María¿Cómo está tu padrastro, Alejandro?How is your stepfather, Alejandro?
- AlejandroÉl está muy bien, gracias.He is doing very well, thanks.
- MaríaMe alegra mucho escucharlo.I am very happy to hear that.
- AlejandroGracias, María, eres muy amable.Thanks, María, you are very kind.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry padrastro, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
