Lael logo

barco means boat — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: December 20, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

barco

noun • /[BAR-co]/

boat

Example:

Vamos a cruzar en barco.

We’re crossing by boat.

🧠 What does barco mean?

The Spanish word 'barco' refers to a vessel used for traveling on water. It is a general term that can encompass various types of watercraft, from small boats to larger ships. Its usage depends on the context and the specific size or purpose of the vessel being discussed. It is a masculine noun.

📚 Extra examples

  • Vamos a alquilar un barco para explorar la costa.
    We are going to rent a boat to explore the coast.
  • El barco zarpó hacia la isla al amanecer.
    The ship set sail for the island at dawn.
  • Los niños estaban emocionados de subir al barco.
    The children were excited to get on the boat.
  • Este barco es ideal para pescar en el lago.
    This boat is ideal for fishing on the lake.
  • El servicio de ferry utiliza un barco grande y moderno.
    The ferry service uses a large and modern ship.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'barco' is a general term, Spanish has many specific words for different types of watercraft, such as 'lancha' (a smaller motorboat), 'velero' (sailboat), and 'crucero' (cruise ship).

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "barco"

Synonyms: navío, embarcación, lancha, yate, buque

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'boat' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'boat' is 'barco'.
How do you pronounce 'barco' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'barco' is roughly 'BAR-koh'. The 'r' is a rolled 'r', and the 'c' sounds like a 'k'.
How do you use 'barco' in a sentence?
You can use 'barco' in sentences describing water travel, for example, 'Me gusta viajar en barco' (I like to travel by boat).
What is the English translation of 'barco'?
The English translation of 'barco' is 'boat' or 'ship'.
Does 'barco' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'barco' is a masculine noun. In the plural, it becomes 'barcos'.
Is 'barco' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'barco' is a common and frequently used word in everyday Spanish, particularly in coastal areas or when discussing travel and leisure activities.
Does 'barco' have slang or double meanings?
Generally, 'barco' is used straightforwardly to mean boat or ship. While some colloquial expressions might exist in specific regions, its primary meaning is literal.
Is 'barco' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The basic meaning of 'barco' as boat or ship is consistent across Spain and Latin America. Regional variations might exist in specific types of boats or idiomatic expressions, but 'barco' itself is universally understood.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store