Lael logo

carnal means brother — a common term in Mexican Slang. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: January 4, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

carnal

noun • /[kar-NAL]/

brother

Example:

¿Qué onda, carnal?

What’s up, bro?

🧠 What does carnal mean?

Carnal is a widely used term in Mexican Spanish that signifies a very close relationship, akin to brotherhood or a deep, familial bond. It is employed to refer to a close friend or companion, emphasizing a strong connection and loyalty, much like one would feel for a sibling. While its literal translation might suggest blood relation, its slang usage extends to non-familial relationships where there is profound trust and affection.

📚 Extra examples

  • Él es mi carnal, siempre me apoya.
    He is my brother/close friend, he always supports me.
  • Vamos a la fiesta, carnal.
    Let's go to the party, man/bro.
  • Conocí a este chavo y se volvió mi carnal.
    I met this guy and he became my brother/close friend.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'carnal' in Spanish, when used as slang, has roots in the Latin word 'carnalis,' meaning 'related by blood' or 'of the flesh.' This etymological connection helps explain its use to denote a deep, almost familial bond.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "carnal"

Synonyms: hermano (informal slang), compadre, cuarto, pariente, colega

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'brother' in Spanish?
The standard word for 'brother' in Spanish is 'hermano'. However, 'carnal' is a slang term used in Mexico to refer to a close friend as if they were a brother.
How do you pronounce 'carnal' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is kah-r-NAHL. The 'c' is hard like in 'cat', the 'a' sounds like the 'a' in 'father', the 'r' is a rolled 'r', the 'n' is standard, and the 'al' sounds like the 'al' in 'pal'.
How do you use 'carnal' in a sentence?
'Carnal' is typically used as a term of endearment or address between close male friends, similar to 'bro' or 'dude' in English. It can also refer to actual brothers in a very informal context.
What is the English translation of 'carnal'?
In its slang context, the closest English translations are 'brother,' 'bro,' 'dude,' or 'buddy,' indicating a very close male friend.
Does 'carnal' change for gender or number?
In its slang usage, 'carnal' is primarily masculine and singular. While theoretically it could be pluralized as 'carnales' to refer to a group of close male friends, it does not typically change to refer to a female. For a female equivalent, other slang terms might be used depending on the region.
Is 'carnal' common in everyday Spanish?
'Carnal' is very common in everyday informal Spanish, particularly in Mexico and among communities with Mexican influence. It is not typically used in formal settings or in Spain.
Does 'carnal' have slang or double meanings?
While its primary slang meaning relates to a very close friend or brother-figure, the word 'carnal' itself is derived from Latin 'carnalis,' meaning 'of the flesh.' In some contexts, it can have a more direct connotation related to physical or carnal desires, though this is less common in its primary slang usage as a term of endearment.
Is 'carnal' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
Yes, 'carnal' is distinctly a Mexican slang term. It is not commonly used in Spain. In other Latin American countries, while the word might be understood, it does not carry the same widespread informal usage for close male friendship as it does in Mexico.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store