castellano

Castilian

noun adjective kahs-teh-YAH-noh Less Common

Also means

Spanish (language)

Usage Note

Castellano is widely used in Spain to refer to the Spanish language, distinguishing it from the country's other official languages such as Catalan, Galician and Basque. As an adjective it means 'from Castile.' In parts of Latin America, notably the Southern Cone, castellano is also preferred over español.

Examples

"Aprendí castellano en la escuela."

Natural Translation

I learned Spanish at school.

Related Words

Explore Spanish by topic

SpanishNow

Spanish Accent Marks: 3 Rules for Every Word

A Spanish word needs an accent mark in just three cases: it breaks the default stress, it's a homophone, or a weak vowel splits off. Here are all three rules.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

Spanish Filler Words: 15 Ways to Sound Natural

Spanish filler words like pues, o sea, and vale make you sound natural, not robotic. Learn 15 muletillas sorted by job, by region, and when not to use them.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

The Spanish Cheek Kiss: Greeting Etiquette by Country

Two kisses in Spain, one in most of Latin America. Master the Spanish cheek kiss greeting — which cheek first, the air-kiss mechanics, and when to shake hands.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

Ser vs. Estar: When to Use Each in Spanish

Ser vs estar made simple: how you feel and where you are use estar, everything else uses ser. Master the rule, the exceptions, and the traps that flip meaning.

June 3, 2026 6 min read