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

📅 Published: December 3, 2025

😆 Funny Words

tocayo

noun • /[to-KA-yo]/

namesake

Example:

Él es mi tocayo, se llama igual.

He’s my namesake, same name.

🧠 What does tocayo mean?

The noun 'tocayo' refers to a person who has the same first name as another. It is the direct equivalent of the English word 'namesake'. The term is used in a friendly and often warm way to point out the coincidence of sharing a name. The feminine form is 'tocaya'. For example, if two women are named Sofía, one can refer to the other as 'mi tocaya'. It creates an instant, lighthearted connection between people.

📚 Extra examples

  • Mi nuevo compañero de trabajo también se llama Javier. ¡Es mi tocayo!
    My new coworker is also named Javier. He's my namesake!
  • En la reunión conocí a mi tocaya, otra Laura que trabaja en el departamento de marketing.
    In the meeting, I met my namesake, another Laura who works in the marketing department.
  • ¡Hola, tocayo! Qué gusto verte de nuevo.
    Hello, namesake! How nice to see you again.

💡 Did You Know?

The origin of 'tocayo' is uncertain, but a widely accepted theory suggests it comes from the Náhuatl word 'tocaitl', which means 'name, honor, or fame'. When someone was addressed by their name, it was a form of respect, and sharing that name created a special bond.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "tocayo"

Synonyms: homónimo

🔍 See more funny words words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'namesake' in Spanish?
The most common and direct word for 'namesake' in Spanish is 'tocayo' for a male or 'tocaya' for a female.
How do you pronounce 'tocayo' in Spanish?
It is pronounced toh-KAH-yoh. The stress falls on the second syllable.
How do you use 'tocayo' in a sentence?
It is used as a noun to identify or address someone with the same name. For example: 'Luis es mi tocayo' (Luis is my namesake) or '¿Cómo estás, tocayo?' (How are you, namesake?).
What is the English translation of 'tocayo'?
The English translation of 'tocayo' is 'namesake'.
Does 'tocayo' change for gender or number?
Yes, it does. The masculine forms are 'tocayo' (singular) and 'tocayos' (plural). The feminine forms are 'tocaya' (singular) and 'tocayas' (plural).
Is 'tocayo' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'tocayo' is a very common and widely used word in everyday, informal Spanish across both Spain and Latin America.
Does 'tocayo' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'tocayo' does not have any common slang or secondary meanings. Its definition is straightforward and universally understood.
Is 'tocayo' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the use and meaning of 'tocayo' are consistent throughout the Spanish-speaking world. It is equally common and understood in Spain and Latin American countries.

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