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zarrapastroso means shabby / scruffy — a common term in Funny Words. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: August 16, 2025

😆 Funny Words

zarrapastroso

adjective • /[za-ra-pas-TRO-so]/

shabby / scruffy

Example:

Luces zarrapastroso sin bañarte.

You look scruffy without showering.

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🧠 What does zarrapastroso mean?

Zarrapastroso is a fun, slightly exaggerated adjective used to describe someone or something that looks shabby, scruffy, or ragged. Think of clothes that are worn out, a person with unkempt hair, or a place that's a bit run-down. It carries a lighthearted tone and isn't usually meant to be deeply offensive.

📚 Extra examples

  • Ese gato zarrapastroso siempre duerme en mi jardín.
    That scruffy cat always sleeps in my garden.
  • ¡Mira qué coche tan zarrapastroso! Parece que se va a caer a pedazos.
    Look at that shabby car! It looks like it's going to fall apart.
  • Llegó a la fiesta con un aspecto zarrapastroso, como si se hubiera vestido con lo primero que encontró.
    He arrived at the party looking scruffy, as if he'd dressed in the first thing he found.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'shabby / scruffy' in Spanish?
There are several ways, but 'zarrapastroso' is a fun and expressive option. Other words include 'desaliñado,' 'destartalado,' and 'harapiento,' depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
How do you pronounce 'zarrapastroso' in Spanish?
It's pronounced tha-rra-pas-TRO-so. Remember to pronounce the 'z' as a 'th' sound like in 'thin'.
How do you use 'zarrapastroso' in a sentence?
You can use it to describe a person, animal, object, or even a place. For example: 'El perro zarrapastroso cruzó la calle.' (The scruffy dog crossed the street.)
What is the English translation of 'zarrapastroso'?
The best translations are 'shabby' or 'scruffy.' Sometimes 'ragged' or 'run-down' also fit.
Does 'zarrapastroso' change for gender or number?
Yes, it does. It follows regular adjective agreement rules. For example: 'un perro zarrapastroso' (a scruffy dog), 'una casa zarrapastrosa' (a shabby house), 'unos zapatos zarrapastrosos' (some scruffy shoes).
Is 'zarrapastroso' common in everyday Spanish?
It's moderately common, especially in informal settings. You'll likely hear it more in spoken Spanish than in formal writing.
Does 'zarrapastroso' have slang or double meanings?
Not really. Its primary meaning is related to shabbiness and scruffiness. It doesn't have any hidden or offensive meanings.
Is 'zarrapastroso' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage are generally consistent across both regions.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "zarrapastroso"

Synonyms: desaliñado, destartalado, harapiento, descuidado
Opposites: elegante, arreglado, pulcro, impecable

💡 Did You Know?

While 'zarrapastroso' describes a physical state of disrepair, it can also be used playfully to describe someone who's a bit of a mess but still lovable!

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