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candado means padlock — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: February 28, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

candado

noun • /[can-DA-do]/

padlock

Example:

Usé un candado para asegurar la maleta.

I used a padlock to secure the suitcase.

🧠 What does candado mean?

A 'candado' is a masculine noun that refers to a portable, detachable lock used to secure items. It typically consists of a shackle that passes through an opening and is then locked into the body of the device. Candados are commonly used on gates, lockers, bicycles, luggage, and chains.

📚 Extra examples

  • Puse un candado en mi bicicleta para que no me la robaran.
    I put a padlock on my bicycle so it wouldn't get stolen.
  • El jardinero cerró la puerta del jardín con un candado grande y oxidado.
    The gardener closed the garden gate with a large, rusty padlock.
  • Cada estudiante necesita su propio candado para el casillero del gimnasio.
    Each student needs their own padlock for the gym locker.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'candado' originates from the Late Latin 'catenātum', which means 'chained'. This etymology reflects the lock's primary function of fastening things together as if with a chain ('cadena').

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "candado"

Opposites: llave

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'padlock' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'padlock' is 'candado'.
How do you pronounce 'candado' in Spanish?
The word 'candado' is pronounced can-DA-do, with the stress on the second syllable. The 'd' sounds are soft, similar to the 'th' sound in the English word 'the'.
How do you use 'candado' in a sentence?
A typical sentence would be: 'Necesito comprar un candado para mi maleta.' This means, 'I need to buy a padlock for my suitcase.'
What is the English translation of 'candado'?
The English translation of 'candado' is 'padlock'.
Does 'candado' change for gender or number?
'Candado' is a masculine noun. It changes for number: 'un candado' (a padlock) and 'los candados' (the padlocks).
Is 'candado' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'candado' is a very common and practical word used in everyday situations related to security and securing personal belongings.
Does 'candado' have slang or double meanings?
While its primary meaning is 'padlock', in some contexts like professional wrestling (lucha libre), 'candado' can refer to a headlock. The expression 'echar el candado' can also mean to close down a business permanently.
Is 'candado' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The word 'candado' is standard and universally understood to mean 'padlock' across all Spanish-speaking countries, with no significant regional variations.

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