Chapinismos - Guatemalan Slang Dictionary
Discover the meaning of the most used words and expressions in Guatemala
Featured Words
Chapín
A person from Guatemala; Guatemalan
Learn more adjectiveChilero
Cool, awesome, great, excellent
Learn more nounChompipe
Turkey (the bird)
Learn more expressionMuchá
Informal term for a group of friends or buddies
Learn more nounPatojo
Kid, child, young person. It can be used in masculine (patojo) or feminine (patoja) forms.
Learn more interjectionPuchica
Mild expletive expressing surprise, frustration, or amazement
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Engasado
Bold or really into something or someone.
Learn more interjectionÉpale
An interjection used to warn someone about danger.
Learn more nounGüipil
Traditional indigenous blouse adorned with colorful embroidery and weaving.
Learn more nounHupil
Traditional indigenous blouse adorned with colorful embroidery and weaving.
Learn more verbJatear
To stack or arrange firewood in an orderly way to dry and store it.
Learn more adjectiveMashcuil
Adjective used to describe a stubborn, obstinate, or pigheaded person.
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What are Chapinismos?
Chapín Identity and Language
Chapinismos are the words, expressions, and idioms unique to Guatemala, forming an integral part of Guatemalan cultural identity. These unique expressions reflect the creativity, humor, and particular way in which Guatemalans communicate in daily life.
History and Community
Each chapinismo tells a story and represents centuries of cultural mestizaje, fusing influences from colonial Spanish, Mayan languages, and expressions born from everyday Guatemalan life. From the highlands to the coast, these words connect us as a people and enrich our linguistic heritage.
Guatemalan Cultural Richness
Guatemala is a multilingual and multicultural country where more than 20 Mayan languages coexist with Spanish. This diversity is reflected in our daily vocabulary, where chapinismos become cultural bridges that express our unique way of seeing the world, our shared history, and the pride of being Guatemalan.
The words in this dictionary are commonly used in Guatemala, but that doesn't mean they aren't used in other countries in the region. In fact, some may have originated in neighboring countries.
How to use the dictionary
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Learn moreFeatured words
Explore the selection of the most popular and interesting chapinismos, curated by our team.
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Discover the most recent words and expressions that have been added to the dictionary.
Learn moreAlphabetical index
Browse all words organized from A to Z in the complete dictionary index.
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