Lael logo

picarón means rascal — a common term in Funny Words. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: November 23, 2025

😆 Funny Words

picarón

noun • /[pee-kah-RON]/

rascal

Example:

Ese picarón me robó el postre.

That rascal stole my dessert.

🧠 What does picarón mean?

A noun used to describe a person, especially a child, who is mischievous, cheeky, or sly in a playful and charming way. It is the augmentative form of 'pícaro', adding a sense of affection or emphasis. The term carries a lighthearted connotation, suggesting harmless cunning rather than true malice.

📚 Extra examples

  • El niño le guiñó un ojo a su abuela; es un verdadero picarón.
    The boy winked at his grandmother; he's a real rascal.
  • Esa sonrisa de picarona lo dice todo, seguro que está tramando algo.
    That mischievous smile of hers says it all; she must be up to something.
  • ¡Qué picarón! Se comió la última galleta y se hizo el inocente.
    What a scamp! He ate the last cookie and played innocent.

💡 Did You Know?

The root word, 'pícaro', is a significant term in Spanish literature. It refers to the roguish, anti-hero protagonist of the picaresque novel, a genre that flourished in Spain's Golden Age. These characters survived by their wits and cunning, a spirit that is captured in the modern, more affectionate use of 'picarón'.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "picarón"

Synonyms: travieso, pícaro, bribón, pillo, trasto
Opposites: santo, inocente, bueno, ángel

🔍 See more funny words words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'rascal' in Spanish?
The word 'picarón' is a great translation for 'rascal'. Other common options include 'pícaro', 'travieso' (mischievous), or 'bribón'.
How do you pronounce 'picarón' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is pee-kah-ROHN. The stress falls on the final syllable, which is indicated by the accent mark on the 'o'.
How do you use 'picarón' in a sentence?
You can use it to describe someone's character or actions. For example: 'Mi sobrino es un picarón, siempre encuentra los dulces escondidos.' (My nephew is a rascal; he always finds the hidden sweets.)
What is the English translation of 'picarón'?
The best English translations are 'rascal', 'scamp', or 'mischievous one'. It implies a playful and charming sort of naughtiness.
Does 'picarón' change for gender or number?
Yes, it follows standard Spanish grammar rules. The feminine form is 'picarona'. The plurals are 'picarones' for masculine or mixed groups, and 'picarones' for all-feminine groups.
Is 'picarón' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, it is a very common and endearing term used across the Spanish-speaking world, particularly when referring to children or in a jocular way among adults.
Does 'picarón' have slang or double meanings?
Its main meaning is 'rascal'. However, in Peru and some nearby countries, 'picarones' are a popular sweet, similar to a doughnut made from squash and sweet potato. The context usually makes the meaning clear.
Is 'picarón' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning of 'rascal' or 'mischievous person' is universally understood. The main regional difference is the existence of the dessert called 'picarones' in certain Latin American countries, primarily Peru.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store