How to Say Nephew in Spanish | MostUsedWords.com
Updated for 2026, the word for nephew in Spanish is "sobrino". This article delves into its meaning, translation, pronunciation, cultural significance, and usage across different contexts.
2,500 most common Spanish words with IPA pronunciation & bilingual example sentences
What is "Nephew" in Spanish?
The term "sobrino" (IPA: /so'βɾino/) refers to the son of one’s brother or sister. It can be used for both male and female nephews, though "sobrina" is specifically for a niece.
Etymology of "Sobrino" in Spanish
Want to improve your Spanish?
The Spanish Frequency Dictionary series covers the 10,000 most common Spanish words — ranked by how often native speakers actually use them, with IPA pronunciation, English translations, and bilingual example sentences at every level.
Browse all 4 volumes →The word "sobrino" has historical roots tracing back to the Latin term "sobrinus", derived from "soror" meaning sister, highlighting its familial origins.
Historical Usage of 'Sobrino'
In medieval Spanish literature and documents, "sobrino" was often used to denote a close family relationship beyond immediate kinship. Its usage has remained consistent over centuries, reflecting the enduring importance of extended family ties in Hispanic cultures.
Comparison with Other Languages
The term for nephew varies across languages; for instance, it is "neveu" in French and "nepote" in Italian. In contrast to these, Spanish uses a singular form that applies to both male and female nephews, though "sobrina" is used specifically for nieces.
Cultural Context Where 'Sobrino' is Used as an Endearment
In many Spanish-speaking cultures, the term "sobrino" extends beyond a mere familial relationship. It often carries affectionate connotations and is used to describe young males who are cherished within the family.
Regional Variations in the Use of 'Sobrino'
The word "sobrino" is consistently understood across Spanish-speaking regions, with no significant variations in meaning or pronunciation. However, usage might differ slightly based on cultural nuances and familial traditions.
Pronunciation Guide for "Sobrino"
To help you pronounce "sobrino" correctly, here's a detailed guide:
- Phonetic Symbol: /so'βɾino/
- Listen to the Pronunciation of "Sobrino"
Meaning and Usage of "Nephew" in Spanish
The word "sobrino" refers to a nephew, which is the son or daughter of one’s brother or sister. It can also be used affectionately for young males who are like sons within the family.
Sample Sentences Using "Sobrino"
To help you understand how to use the word "sobrino" in context, here are some sample sentences:
- Mi sobrino viene a visitarme el próximo fin de semana.
(My nephew is coming to visit me next weekend)
- El hijo de mi hermana es mi sobrino favorito.
(My sister's son is my favorite nephew)
- Tengo dos sobrinos y tres sobrinas.
(I have two nephews and three nieces)
- Mi sobrino es muy inteligente y talentoso.
(My nephew is very smart and talented)
Build Your Spanish Vocabulary Systematically
The fastest way to grow your Spanish vocabulary is to start with the words you'll actually encounter every day. The Spanish Frequency Dictionary covers the 2,500 most common Spanish words, each with IPA pronunciation, an English translation, and bilingual example sentences.
Browse the full range of Spanish frequency dictionaries to find the volume that matches your level.