compinche
/komˈpint͡ʃe/feminine, masculine
The English phrase wingman can be translated into Spanish as compinche. Wiktionary also lists alero.
Meaning: friend that gives support (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| compinche | /komˈpint͡ʃe/ | feminine, masculine |
| alero | /aˈleɾo/ | El Salvador, masculine |
A wingman is a friend who provides support.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In El Salvador, the colloquial masculine term alero is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of compinche is compinches. The feminine plural form of alero is aleras.
How do you pronounce it?
/komˈpintʃe/
Did you know?
- The word alero literally means 'eave', referring to the overhanging edge of a roof. This creates a metaphor where the wingman is a protective shelter for their friend.
- In many Latin American countries, calling someone your compinche can imply you are not just friends, but actually accomplices in a mischievous or illegal act.
- The word compinche is built from the Latin prefix 'com-' meaning 'with' and the word 'pinche', which in many Spanish dialects refers to a 'kitchen hand' or 'helper'.
Examples in context
- Va a ser mi alero mañana.He's going to be my wingman tomorrow.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use alero to refer to a wingman.
- Mi amigo es un buen acompañante para ligar.My friend is a good wingman for flirting.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Sofía are getting ready for a party.
- AlejandroSofía, ¿quieres ser mi compinche esta noche?Sofía, do you want to be my wingwoman tonight?
- SofíaClaro, yo te ayudo a conseguir su número.Sure, I will help you get her number.
- Alejandro¡Genial! Eres la mejor compinche del mundo.Great! You are the best wingwoman in the world.
- SofíaYa lo sabemos, ahora vamos a la fiesta.We already know that, now let's go to the party.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “wingman” translations and entries compinche, alero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries alero, compinche, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
