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

📅 Published: April 3, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

cuñado

noun • /[koo-NYA-do]/

brother-in-law

Example:

Mi cuñado vive cerca.

My brother-in-law lives nearby.

🧠 What does cuñado mean?

While 'cuñado' literally translates to 'brother-in-law,' in Mexican slang, it is commonly used as a familiar and often informal term of address for a male friend or acquaintance, similar to 'buddy,' 'mate,' or 'bro' in English. This usage emphasizes camaraderie and a sense of closeness, even among people who are not related by marriage. The term implies a shared understanding or belonging within a particular social group.

📚 Extra examples

  • Oye, cuñado, ¿vamos por unas chelas después del trabajo?
    Hey, buddy, shall we go for some beers after work?
  • No te preocupes, cuñado, yo te ayudo con eso.
    Don't worry, mate, I'll help you with that.
  • Qué onda, cuñado, ¿todo bien?
    What's up, bro, is everything good?

💡 Did You Know?

While 'cuñado' literally refers to a brother-in-law, its slang usage in Mexico as a term of endearment for a friend highlights the cultural importance of male camaraderie and close friendships. It's a term that fosters a sense of belonging and informality.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "cuñado"

Synonyms: amigo, compa, carnal, parcero, hermano

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'brother-in-law' in Spanish?
The standard Spanish word for 'brother-in-law' is 'cuñado'. In Mexican slang, 'cuñado' can also be used to address a male friend.
How do you pronounce 'cuñado' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'cuñado' is roughly 'kwah-NYAH-doh'. The 'ñ' sound is similar to the 'ny' in 'canyon'.
How do you use 'cuñado' in a sentence?
As a term of address for a friend, it's used informally. For example, 'Oye, cuñado, ¿me pasas la sal?' (Hey, buddy, can you pass me the salt?). As a literal brother-in-law, it would be used in a familial context, such as 'Mi cuñado vive en Guadalajara' (My brother-in-law lives in Guadalajara).
What is the English translation of 'cuñado'?
The direct translation of 'cuñado' is 'brother-in-law'. However, in Mexican slang, it can be translated as 'buddy,' 'mate,' or 'bro' when used as a familiar term of address.
Does 'cuñado' change for gender or number?
Yes. The masculine singular form is 'cuñado'. The feminine singular form is 'cuñada' (sister-in-law or female friend/acquaintance). The masculine plural is 'cuñados', and the feminine plural is 'cuñadas'.
Is 'cuñado' common in everyday Spanish?
The literal meaning of 'cuñado' is common in everyday Spanish. The slang usage as a term of address for a friend is very common in Mexico, but less so in other Spanish-speaking countries.
Does 'cuñado' have slang or double meanings?
Yes, in Mexico, 'cuñado' is widely used as slang to refer to a male friend or acquaintance, implying camaraderie. This is its primary double meaning.
Is 'cuñado' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The literal meaning of 'cuñado' (brother-in-law) is understood universally. However, the slang usage of 'cuñado' as a friendly term of address is predominantly Mexican. While some other Latin American countries might understand it, it is not as prevalent or characteristic as it is in Mexico. In Spain, the term is generally understood only in its literal sense.

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