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

📅 Published: December 11, 2025

😆 Funny Words

trasto

noun • /[TRAS-to]/

junk

Example:

Tira ese trasto viejo ya.

Throw out that old junk already.

🧠 What does trasto mean?

Trasto is a masculine noun that generally refers to a useless, cumbersome, or broken object that takes up space; it is equivalent to 'junk' or 'clutter'. In a colloquial and often affectionate sense, 'trasto' can also describe a person, especially a child, who is mischievous, restless, or a bit of a handful. This dual meaning, shifting from an inanimate object to a lively person, gives the word a humorous and versatile quality in everyday speech.

📚 Extra examples

  • Tengo que vaciar el garaje porque está lleno de trastos viejos.
    I have to empty the garage because it's full of old junk.
  • Este niño es un trasto, no para quieto ni un segundo.
    This kid is a rascal, he doesn't stay still for a second.
  • Ese sofá antiguo es un trasto inútil que ocupa demasiado espacio.
    That old sofa is a useless piece of junk that takes up too much space.
  • Mi sobrino es un trasto adorable, siempre está haciendo travesuras.
    My nephew is an adorable little troublemaker, he's always getting into mischief.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'trasto' originates from the Latin 'transtrum', which meant 'crossbeam' or 'bench'. Over time, its meaning shifted to refer to any piece of furniture, and eventually acquired a negative connotation, referring to a useless or cumbersome piece of furniture. The metaphorical leap to describe a mischievous person is a great example of how language evolves to use concrete terms for abstract or personal qualities.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "trasto"

Synonyms: cachivache, chisme, bártulo, travieso, diablillo
Opposites: objeto útil, artículo de valor, joya, santo, bendito

🔍 See more funny words words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'junk' in Spanish?
The word 'junk' can be translated in several ways in Spanish depending on the context. A common and useful word is 'trasto', especially for useless or cumbersome objects. Other options include 'chatarra' (for scrap metal), 'basura' (for trash/garbage), or 'cachivaches' (for odds and ends).
How do you pronounce 'trasto' in Spanish?
The word 'trasto' is pronounced 'TRAS-toh'. The stress is on the first syllable, 'tras-', with a clear 'a' sound. The final 'o' is short and pure.
How do you use 'trasto' in a sentence?
Here is an example: 'No sé dónde guardar tantos trastos que hemos acumulado.' (I don't know where to store so much junk we've accumulated.)
What is the English translation of 'trasto'?
The primary English translation for 'trasto' is 'junk', 'clutter', or a 'useless object'. When referring to a person, especially a child, it can be translated as 'rascal', 'scamp', or 'mischievous child'.
Does 'trasto' change for gender or number?
Yes, it does. 'Trasto' is a masculine noun. The plural form is 'trastos'. When used to refer to a person, it can change for gender: 'un trasto' (a mischievous boy) and 'una trasta' (a mischievous girl), though using the masculine form for both is also common in informal speech.
Is 'trasto' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'trasto' is very common in everyday colloquial Spanish, both in Spain and in many parts of Latin America. It's frequently used when talking about cleaning, moving, or describing cluttered spaces.
Does 'trasto' have slang or double meanings?
Yes. Its main double meaning is the shift from an inanimate object ('junk') to a person ('rascal' or 'nuisance'). This second meaning is colloquial and can be affectionate, especially with children, but could be considered insulting if used for an adult.
Is 'trasto' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The use of 'trasto' for useless objects is widespread and understood across the Spanish-speaking world. The colloquial use for a mischievous person, particularly a child, is more common in Spain but is also understood and used in some Latin American countries. In some regions, other words like 'travieso' might be more frequent for a mischievous child.

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