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pelele means puppet / fool — a common term in Funny Words. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: July 26, 2025

😆 Funny Words

pelele

noun • /[peh-LEH-leh]/

puppet / fool

Example:

Eres un pelele en manos de todos.

You're a puppet in everyone's hands.

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🧠 What does pelele mean?

Pelele is a Spanish word that can mean "puppet" or "fool." When referring to a puppet, it often describes a simple, straw-filled figure, sometimes used for festivities. When used to describe a person, it means someone easily manipulated or foolish, a bit like a "straw man." It carries a slightly stronger negative connotation than simply "silly" and suggests a lack of intelligence or critical thinking.

📚 Extra examples

  • El político era un pelele en manos de las grandes corporaciones.
    The politician was a puppet in the hands of big corporations.
  • No seas pelele, ¡piensa por ti mismo!
    Don't be a fool, think for yourself!
  • Hicimos un pelele de paja para el festival.
    We made a straw puppet for the festival.
  • Se sentía como un pelele bailando al son que le tocaban.
    He felt like a puppet dancing to someone else's tune.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'puppet / fool' in Spanish?
One way to say "puppet / fool" in Spanish is "pelele."
How do you pronounce 'pelele' in Spanish?
It's pronounced peh-leh-leh, with the stress on the second syllable.
How do you use 'pelele' in a sentence?
You could say, "No seas pelele" (Don't be a fool), or "Era un pelele del sistema" (He was a puppet of the system).
What is the English translation of 'pelele'?
Pelele translates to "puppet" or "fool" in English.
Does 'pelele' change for gender or number?
No, 'pelele' stays the same regardless of gender or number.
Is 'pelele' common in everyday Spanish?
It's not incredibly common, but you'll hear it occasionally, especially in informal settings.
Does 'pelele' have slang or double meanings?
While primarily meaning "puppet" or "fool," the specific connotation can depend on context. It can sometimes be used playfully, but generally carries a negative meaning.
Is 'pelele' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning remains largely the same across both Spain and Latin America.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "pelele"

Synonyms: títere, tonto, bobo, incauto
Opposites: listo, inteligente, astuto

💡 Did You Know?

In some Spanish-speaking regions, "pelele" also refers to a type of scarecrow.

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