popular means popular — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.
📅 Published: October 28, 2025
popular
adjective • /[poh-poo-LAR]/
popular
Example:
Es un lugar popular entre turistas.
It's a popular place among tourists.
🧠 What does popular mean?
The Spanish word "popular" means popular or well-liked by many people. It can refer to someone or something that is widely known and enjoyed by the general public. It can describe a person, place, thing, or even an idea.
📚 Extra examples
- La paella es un plato muy popular en España.
Paella is a very popular dish in Spain. - Ella es una cantante popular entre los jóvenes.
She is a popular singer among young people. - El barrio popular está lleno de vida.
The working-class neighborhood is full of life. - Esa idea no es muy popular entre los expertos.
That idea isn't very popular among experts.
💡 Did You Know?
The word 'popular' comes from the Latin word 'populāris', meaning 'of the people'.
🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "popular"
Synonyms: famoso, conocido, predilecto, querido
Opposites: impopular, desconocido, despreciado
🔍 See more essential spanish words
❓ FAQ
How do you say 'popular' in Spanish?
The word for 'popular' in Spanish is, conveniently, also 'popular'.
How do you pronounce 'popular' in Spanish?
It's pronounced poh-poo-LAHR, with the stress on the last syllable.
How do you use 'popular' in a sentence?
You can use it just like in English: 'El restaurante es popular' (The restaurant is popular), or 'Es una persona popular' (They're a popular person).
What is the English translation of 'popular'?
The English translation of 'popular' is 'popular'.
Does 'popular' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'popular' follows standard Spanish adjective rules. It changes to 'populares' for plural nouns, regardless of gender. For example, 'Las canciones populares' (popular songs) and 'Los artistas populares' (popular artists).
Is 'popular' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'popular' is a very common word in everyday Spanish conversations.
Does 'popular' have slang or double meanings?
While 'popular' doesn't have direct slang meanings, 'barrio popular' commonly refers to a working-class neighborhood.
Is 'popular' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The word 'popular' is generally used the same way across Spain and Latin America, with the 'barrio popular' usage consistent throughout.
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