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

📅 Published: April 6, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

patrón

noun • /[pa-TRON]/

boss

Example:

El patrón llegó temprano.

The boss arrived early.

🧠 What does patrón mean?

In Mexican slang, "patrón" refers to a boss, employer, or the person in charge. It conveys a sense of authority and respect, often used informally among colleagues or by employees when speaking about their superior. While the standard Spanish word "patrón" can also mean pattern or model, this specific usage in Mexico is colloquial and denotes a hierarchical relationship in a work or business context. It implies someone who gives orders and is in a position of power.

📚 Extra examples

  • El patrón nos dio el día libre el viernes.
    The boss gave us the day off on Friday.
  • Tengo que preguntarle al patrón si puedo salir temprano.
    I have to ask the boss if I can leave early.
  • Todos respetan al patrón por su honestidad.
    Everyone respects the boss for his honesty.
  • Ella es la nueva patrón de la empresa.
    She is the new boss of the company.

💡 Did You Know?

The word "patrón" in Spanish originates from the Latin word "patronus," which originally referred to a protector or advocate, often a man of noble rank who had clients under his protection. This historical root might contribute to the sense of authority and leadership implied when used to mean 'boss'.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "patrón"

Synonyms: jefe, empleador, líder, superior
Opposites: empleado, trabajador, subordinado

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'boss' in Spanish slang?
In Mexican slang, "patrón" is commonly used to say 'boss'.
How do you pronounce 'patrón' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'patrón' is pah-TRON. The accent mark on the 'o' indicates that the stress falls on that syllable.
How do you use 'patrón' in a sentence?
You can use "patrón" in sentences to refer to your employer or superior, for example, "El patrón decidió aumentar los salarios" (The boss decided to increase salaries).
What is the English translation of 'patrón'?
In its Mexican slang context, the English translation of "patrón" is 'boss'.
Does 'patrón' change for gender or number?
As a noun, "patrón" follows standard Spanish grammar. The masculine singular is "patrón." The plural is "patrones." If referring to a female boss, the more formal term "la jefa" is often preferred, though in some informal contexts, "la patrón" might be heard, but it's less common and can sound awkward.
Is 'patrón' common in everyday Spanish?
While "patrón" has a standard meaning of 'pattern' or 'model' in everyday Spanish, its use as 'boss' is particularly common in Mexico and some other Latin American countries. In Spain, "jefe" or "jefa" are the more usual terms for 'boss'.
Does 'patrón' have slang or double meanings?
Yes, in Mexico, "patrón" has a specific slang meaning of 'boss' or 'employer,' distinct from its standard meaning of 'pattern' or 'model.' This slang usage carries connotations of authority and the power dynamic within a workplace.
Is 'patrón' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
In Spain, the word for 'boss' is typically "jefe" (masculine) or "jefa" (feminine). While "patrón" exists in Spain with the meaning of 'pattern' or 'model,' its use as 'boss' is not standard. In Mexico and some other Latin American countries, "patrón" is frequently used informally to mean 'boss,' carrying a specific cultural nuance of respect for the employer.

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