rechoncho
/reˈt͡ʃont͡ʃo/
The English adjective "stubby" can be translated into Spanish as rechoncho.
rechoncho is used to describe something that is stubby in terms of its proportions. However, it is most frequently used to describe a person or an animal as being somewhat chubby or stout.
Meaning: like a stub (adj)
Which one should you use?
While rechoncho refers to being stubby or stout, the informal term Chato/a can also be used to describe something as being small, flat or stubby.
How does it change in a sentence?
The adjective rechoncho must agree in gender and number with the noun it describes. Use rechoncha for feminine singular nouns, rechonchos for masculine or mixed-gender plural nouns and rechonchas for feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/reˈtʃontʃo/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, the concept of being 'stubby' or 'chubby' often overlaps with the word relleno, which literally means 'filled', as if the person were a stuffed pastry.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, calling a child rechoncho is often intended as a term of endearment rather than a criticism of their weight. It evokes an image of a healthy, robust baby.
- The word chato can describe a 'stubby' or flat nose, and in some Latin American countries, it is used as a fond term of endearment for children regardless of their actual appearance.
Examples in context
- El bebé tenía piernas regordetas y brazos cortos.The baby had stubby legs and short arms.
- ¡Mira ese lápiz enano!Look at that stubby pencil!
- Tiene los dedos un poco rechonchos.He has slightly stubby fingers.
- Ese árbol es corto y rechoncho.That tree is short and stubby.
Example conversation
María and Mateo are looking at a puppy.
- MaríaMira que lindo es este cachorro.Look how cute this puppy is.
- MateoSí, es muy rechoncho y tierno.Yes, he is very stubby and sweet.
- MaríaParece una pequeña pelota de pelo.He looks like a little ball of fur.
- MateoEs el más adorable de todos.He is the most adorable of all.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “stubby” translations and entries rechoncho, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
