Lael logo

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

📅 Published: March 8, 2026

✈️ Travel Spanish

maletín

noun • /[mah-leh-TEEN]/

briefcase

Example:

Guardó los documentos en su maletín.

He put the documents in his briefcase.

🧠 What does maletín mean?

A maletín is a type of portable case, typically rectangular and made of leather or a similar material, used for carrying documents, a laptop, or other work-related items. It is often associated with business professionals and can be carried by a handle. While it serves a similar purpose to a handbag or backpack, its structure and design are specifically intended for the organized transport of professional or important materials.

📚 Extra examples

  • El ejecutivo dejó su maletín en la sala de conferencias.
    The executive left his briefcase in the conference room.
  • Necesito un maletín resistente para proteger mi computadora portátil durante los viajes de negocios.
    I need a sturdy briefcase to protect my laptop during business trips.
  • En el maletín llevaba contratos importantes y su agenda.
    In the briefcase, he carried important contracts and his planner.
  • La aerolínea permite llevar un maletín de mano como equipaje adicional.
    The airline allows a carry-on briefcase as additional luggage.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'maletín' derives from the word 'mala', which means 'bag'. This highlights its fundamental function as a container for carrying items.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "maletín"

Synonyms: portafolio, cartera

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'briefcase' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'briefcase' is maletín.
How do you pronounce 'maletín' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'maletín' is mah-leh-TEEN. The 'm' is pronounced as in English 'man', the 'a' is like the 'a' in 'father', the 'l' is a standard 'l' sound, the 'e' is like the 'e' in 'bet', the 't' is a standard 't' sound, and the 'ín' is a nasal 'in' sound, similar to the 'een' in 'seen' but with a slight nasalization.
How do you use 'maletín' in a sentence?
A maletín is used to refer to a briefcase. For example, 'Llevo mi portátil en mi maletín.' (I carry my laptop in my briefcase.)
What is the English translation of 'maletín'?
The English translation of 'maletín' is 'briefcase'.
Does 'maletín' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'maletín' is a masculine noun. In the singular, it is 'el maletín'. In the plural, it becomes 'los maletines'.
Is 'maletín' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'maletín' is a common word in everyday Spanish, particularly when referring to professional or business contexts. It is understood throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Does 'maletín' have slang or double meanings?
The word 'maletín' itself does not typically have slang or double meanings. Its primary and most common meaning is 'briefcase'.
Is 'maletín' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The use and meaning of 'maletín' as 'briefcase' are generally consistent across Spain and Latin America. Regional variations might exist for other types of bags, but 'maletín' specifically denotes a briefcase.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store