Growing up in the Dominican Republic, I was always tuned into the infectious rhythms of Puerto Rican music. Along with those catchy beats came some seriously creative expressions that I couldn’t help but take in. It’s amazing how a few words can pack so much personality and humor.
This article is all about those expressions that can add real flavor to your Spanish. We’re going to cover 23 Puerto Rican slang words and phrases that you’ll want to know, whether you’re visiting Borinquen or just catching up with your friends. I’ll break down what each term means and how you can use them in conversation. I will also share a bit about how Puerto Rican slang has influenced other Spanish-speaking countries. So, let’s dive in!
How Puerto Rican Slang Has Influenced Other Spanish-Speaking Countries
Puerto Rican slang has spread its influence across many Spanish-speaking countries, thanks in large part to music, migration, and social media. Artists from Puerto Rico, especially in genres like reggaeton and salsa, often use local expressions in their lyrics. When these songs become popular, they introduce new slang to listeners everywhere.
Social media has also played a huge role in sharing Puerto Rican slang. Influencers and content creators use these expressions in their videos, making them accessible to a wider audience. As people connect through social platforms, they start using these terms in their daily conversations, fostering a sense of community among Spanish speakers. For this reason, it is very likely that you will hear Puerto Rican slang in the least expected places.
23 Puerto Rican Slang Words That Will Make You Sound Like A Local
Puerto Rican Spanish has its own unique flavor, with words and phrases that you won't hear anywhere else. Here are 23 Puerto Rican slang words that will help you sound like a local—and maybe even impress a few natives along the way!
1. Corillo
This word refers to your group of friends or crew. You’ll hear people use it when talking about hanging out with their squad.
Example: “Voy a la playa con el corillo.” (I’m going to the beach with the crew.)
2. ¡Diache!
A fun way to express surprise or amazement, like saying “Wow!” or “Oh, man!”
Example: “¡Diache, qué brutal estuvo eso!” (Wow, that was awesome!)
3. Meter Mano
This is a go-to phrase meaning “to get to work” or “to handle it.” Use it whenever someone’s getting things done or taking action.
Example: “Tengo que meter mano en ese proyecto.” (I have to get to work on that project.)
4. A Fuego
If something’s amazing or cool, it’s “a fuego.” You’ll hear it in music, parties, and any time people are hyped about something.
Example: “El concierto estuvo a fuego.” (The concert was awesome.)
5. Enfogonado/a
This means “angry” or “fired up.” It’s a colorful way to describe someone who’s really annoyed or mad.
Example: “Ella está enfogonada porque perdió su cartera.” (She’s angry because she lost her wallet.)
6. Zafacón
A simple but necessary word for 'trash can.' It’s unique to Puerto Rican Spanish, so keep it in mind!
Example: “Bota eso en el zafacón.” (Throw that in the trash.)
7. Wepa
A cheerful expression, like shouting “Yay!” or “Woohoo!” It’s all about celebrating or showing excitement.
Example: “¡Wepa! Gané la competencia.” (Woohoo! I won the competition.)
8. Boricua
This term means Puerto Rican. It comes from “Borikén,” the Taíno name for the island.
Example: “Soy boricua de pura cepa.” (I’m Puerto Rican through and through.)
9. Al Garete
When something’s wild, crazy, or out of control, you can call it “al garete.”
Example: “La fiesta estaba al garete.” (The party was wild.)
10. Acicalao
This one’s for when someone’s all dressed up and looking sharp.
Example: “Voy acicalao para la fiesta.” (I’m all dressed up for the party.)
11. Maceta
This term is a playful way to call someone cheap or stingy.
Example: “No me seas maceta, invita algo.” (Don’t be stingy; offer something.)
Wanna learn more Spanish slang? Check these out!
Lorena Macedo
Milena Andrade
12. Chinchorrear
Bar hopping refers to going from place to place to eat and drink, especially at local spots known as “chinchorros.”
Example: “Vamos a chinchorrear por la isla.” (Let’s go bar-hopping around the island.)
13. Pichea
To ignore or forget about something is similar to saying, “Never mind.”
Example: “Pichea eso, no vale la pena.” (Forget about that; it’s not worth it.)
14. Acho / Chacho
These are short for “muchacho” and are used as fillers in conversations, similar to saying “man” or “dude” in English. You’ll hear “Acho” or “Chacho” at the start of sentences to emphasize whatever comes next.
Example: “Acho, esa fiesta estuvo brutal.” (Man, that party was amazing.)
15. ¡Dale!
This word is used to say “go ahead” or “let’s go.” It’s common in conversations to encourage someone to do something.
Example: “¡Dale, vamos a la playa!” (Let’s go to the beach!)
16. Cojerlo Con Calma
This phrase means 'take it easy' or take it slow. It’s a good reminder to relax.
Example: “Hoy quiero cogerlo con calma.” (Today, I want to take it easy.)
17. ¡Ay bendito!
This is a classic Puerto Rican expression that, depending on the tone, can mean “Oh my gosh!” or express sympathy.
Example: “¡Ay bendito, qué pena!” (Oh my gosh, what a shame!)
18. Jíbaro
A term used to describe someone from the countryside. It can be affectionate, showing pride in its rural roots.
Example: “Mi abuelo es jíbaro de las montañas.” (My grandfather is from the mountains.)
19. Tumbao
This word means style or swagger. Someone with “tumbao” has a cool, confident vibe.
Example: “Ella tiene mucho tumbao.” (She has a lot of style.)
20. Jartera
This means “to be stuffed” or “to have eaten a lot.” Perfect to describe that feeling after a big Puerto Rican meal!
Example: “Tengo una jartera después de ese lechón.” (I’m stuffed after eating that roast pork.)
21. Revolú
This means a mess or chaotic situation. Great for when things are all over the place!
Example: “La fiesta terminó en un revolú.” (The party ended in a mess.)
22. Bochinche
Gossip or drama. It’s used to describe juicy rumors or a lively conversation.
Example: “Tengo un bochinche que contarte.” (I have some gossip to tell you.)
23. Embuste
This is a way to say “lie” or “falsehood,” but it’s also commonly used when you don’t believe something someone says. It’s like saying, “No way!” or “You’re kidding!”
Example: “¡Embuste! ¿De verdad pasó eso?” (No way! Did that really happen?)
Learn To Speak Like A Boricua With Lingopie!
And there you have it! With these 23 Puerto Rican slang words in your back pocket, you're ready to bring some authentic flavor to your Spanish conversations. Remember to keep context and audience in mind when using slang, as it can vary significantly in formality and appropriateness. It's always a good idea to observe others and ask for feedback to ensure you're using the terms correctly.
If you're excited to keep expanding your Spanish Learning with even more regional expressions, then Lingopie might be what you're looking for. It offers Spanish shows, movies, and other native content, so you can hear slang like this in action, pick up new expressions, and improve your language skills. Ready to sound even more like a local? Give Lingopie a try and bring your Spanish to life!
