cantero
/kanˈteɾo/
The English phrase stone mason is translated into Spanish as cantero.
The term refers to a person who cuts and builds structures using natural stone.
Which one should you use?
cantero is the specific term for this profession. You may also use the descriptive phrase albañil de piedra to describe a mason who specifically works with stone.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of cantero is canteros. The feminine form cantero refers to a female stone mason, while the word cantera refers to a stone quarry.
How do you pronounce it?
/kanˈteɾo/
Did you know?
- While cantero is the professional term, the word cantera for a stone quarry can also be used figuratively to describe a 'source' or 'breeding ground' for talented people, such as a sports team's youth academy.
- While a cantero works with natural stone, the term albañil comes from the Arabic al-bannā', reflecting the deep influence of Moorish construction techniques on the Spanish language.
- In the context of traditional Spanish guilds, the cantero was often distinguished from the picapedrero, who performed the rougher, initial breaking of the stone.
Examples in context
- El cantero trabaja con granito.The stone mason works with granite.
- Necesitamos contratar a un cantero.We need to hire a stone mason.
- Mi abuelo era un cantero experto.My grandfather was an expert stone mason.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are discussing the renovation of an old wall.
- Daniel¿Sabes si hay un cantero cerca?Do you know if there is a stone mason nearby?
- MaríaNo, pero puedo buscar uno.No, but I can look for one.
- DanielGracias, María. El muro es de piedra.Thanks, María. The wall is made of stone.
- MaríaEntiendo, Daniel. Buscaré un buen cantero.I understand, Daniel. I will look for a good stone mason.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cantero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
