barco — meaning in English: ship

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for ship

hija

barco

primero

listos

oro

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Spanish for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers commonly use 'barco' when discussing travel by sea, particularly in coastal regions or during vacations that involve cruises. In everyday conversations, it might come up when talking about fishing, shipping goods, or recounting experiences on a boat.

Synonyms & nuances

'Barco' specifically refers to larger vessels, while 'bote' denotes smaller boats. You would use 'barco' when speaking about cruise ships or container ships, whereas 'bote' would be suited for canoes or dinghies.

Culture

'Barco' has its roots in the Latin word 'barca,' which originally referred to small boats. In Spanish-speaking cultures, ships have played a vital role in trade and exploration, shaping history and community life, especially in countries with rich maritime traditions like Spain and Mexico. Fun fact: The famous Spanish galleons were large 'barcos' that carried treasures from the New World back to Europe!

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of 'barco'?

The plural form is 'barcos.' You use it when referring to more than one ship, such as in discussions about a fleet or multiple vessels.

Q.Can 'barco' refer to any type of boat?

'Barco' generally refers to larger ships, while smaller boats are typically called 'bote.' So, if you're talking about a yacht or cargo ship, 'barco' is appropriate, but for something like a kayak, you'd use 'bote.'

Q.Is 'barco' used in any idiomatic expressions?

'Barco' appears in expressions such as 'irse en un barco,' meaning to leave abruptly. This reflects its usage in maritime adventures and the idea of setting off on a journey.

Learn spanish with Maspeak →

Spanish 1000