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

📅 Published: March 17, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

mocoso

noun • /[mo-KO-so]/

brat

Example:

Ese mocoso no deja de gritar.

That brat won't stop shouting.

🧠 What does mocoso mean?

Mocoso refers to a spoiled, ill-behaved, and often disrespectful child. It carries a strong connotation of someone who is accustomed to getting their way and shows a lack of consideration for others, frequently exhibiting tantrums or impolite behavior. While technically referring to a child, it can sometimes be used informally to describe an adult exhibiting similar immature and rude characteristics. The term originates from the word 'moco' which means 'snot,' suggesting a childish or immature state.

📚 Extra examples

  • Ese niño es un mocoso, siempre pide todo y nunca dice gracias.
    That child is a brat, he always asks for everything and never says thank you.
  • No seas mocoso y compórtate en la cena familiar.
    Don't be a brat and behave yourself at the family dinner.
  • Le dejaron hacer lo que quisiera y ahora es un verdadero mocoso.
    They let him do whatever he wanted, and now he's a real brat.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'mocoso' derives from 'moco,' which means 'snot.' This etymology highlights the immaturity and childishness associated with the term.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "mocoso"

Synonyms: niño malcriado, travieso
Opposites: niño bien educado, obediente

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'brat' in Spanish?
In Mexican slang, 'mocoso' is used to say 'brat'.
How do you pronounce 'mocoso' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'mocoso' is moh-KOH-soh. The 'm' is like the English 'm', the 'o' sounds are like the 'o' in 'go', the 'c' before 'o' sounds like the English 'k', and the 's' sounds like the English 's'.
How do you use 'mocoso' in a sentence?
Mocoso is used as a noun to describe a spoiled or ill-behaved child. For example, 'El niño es un mocoso' (The child is a brat).
What is the English translation of 'mocoso'?
The most common English translation for 'mocoso' is 'brat'.
Does 'mocoso' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'mocoso' changes for gender and number. The masculine singular form is 'mocoso'. The feminine singular form is 'micosa'. The masculine plural form is 'mocosos', and the feminine plural form is 'micosas'.
Is 'mocoso' common in everyday Spanish?
'Mocoso' is a common term in Mexican Spanish to describe a spoiled child. It is understood in many Spanish-speaking countries but is particularly prevalent in Mexico.
Does 'mocoso' have slang or double meanings?
While 'mocoso' primarily refers to a spoiled child, its origin from 'moco' (snot) lends it an inherently childish and slightly derogatory feel. It's not typically used with a sexual double meaning but rather to emphasize immaturity and poor behavior.
Is 'mocoso' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
In Spain, 'mocoso' is also used to refer to a child, often a young one, and can be a bit more neutral or even affectionate, similar to 'little one' or 'kid'. The strong 'brat' connotation associated with spoiled behavior is more pronounced in its usage in Mexico and other parts of Latin America, where it is considered slang.

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