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

📅 Published: November 27, 2025

🌶️ Mexican Slang

manita

noun • /[ma-NEE-ta]/

hand

Example:

Échame la manita con esto.

Give me a hand with this.

🧠 What does manita mean?

Manita is a diminutive of the Spanish word 'mano' (hand). While technically it translates to 'little hand,' in Mexican slang, it is commonly used as a friendly and informal way to refer to a 'hand,' often in the context of helping or collaborating. It can also be used to refer to a sibling or close friend, akin to 'bro' or 'sis' in English, emphasizing a sense of closeness and camaraderie.

📚 Extra examples

  • ¿Me echas una manita con estas cajas?
    Can you lend me a hand with these boxes?
  • Vamos, manita, que ya casi terminamos.
    Come on, buddy/sis, we're almost done.
  • Gracias por tu manita, de verdad la aprecio.
    Thanks for your help, I really appreciate it.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'mano' is the standard Spanish word for hand, the diminutive 'manita' is frequently used in Mexican Spanish not just to mean 'little hand,' but also as a friendly and informal way to address a close friend or sibling, or to refer to a gesture of help.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "manita"

Synonyms: mano (standard), ayuda (help), hermano/hermana (brother/sister, informal)
Opposites: enemigo (enemy), extraño (stranger)

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'hand' in Spanish?
The standard word for 'hand' in Spanish is 'mano'.
How do you pronounce 'manita' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is 'mah-NEE-tah'. The 'h' is silent, and the stress is on the second syllable.
How do you use 'manita' in a sentence?
In its slang usage, 'manita' is often used when asking for or offering help, or when referring to a close friend or sibling informally. For example, '¿Me das una manita?' (Can you give me a hand?) or 'Hola, manita, ¿cómo estás?' (Hi, buddy/sis, how are you?).
What is the English translation of 'manita'?
The literal translation of 'manita' is 'little hand.' However, in Mexican slang, it can be translated as 'hand' (when offering help), 'buddy,' 'pal,' 'bro,' or 'sis' depending on the context.
Does 'manita' change for gender or number?
As a diminutive, 'manita' is feminine and singular. The plural would be 'manitas.' However, when used as slang for a friend, it typically remains 'manita' regardless of the gender of the person being addressed, though this is more common when referring to a female friend or someone perceived as closer and more like family. If referring to multiple close friends, one might say 'manitas' informally.
Is 'manita' common in everyday Spanish?
In Mexico, 'manita' is very common in informal, everyday speech, especially among friends and family. Its usage as a general term for 'hand' in the context of help is also prevalent. It is less common in formal settings or in other Spanish-speaking countries.
Does 'manita' have slang or double meanings?
Yes, its primary slang meaning in Mexico is as an informal term of endearment for a close friend or sibling, similar to 'bro' or 'sis,' and also as a colloquial way to refer to offering or receiving help.
Is 'manita' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
Yes, 'manita' is primarily a Mexican colloquialism. While other Spanish-speaking regions might understand the literal meaning of 'little hand,' the slang usage for 'friend' or as a general term for 'hand' in the context of help is not as widespread as it is in Mexico. In Spain, diminutives are common, but this specific slang usage is not typical.

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