vato

What is another word for vato? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A casual, informal way to refer to a guy or dude, especially among Mexican-American and Chicano speakers.

We haven't recorded synonyms for vato yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use vato

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

ese vato a cool vato my vato

Informal and regional — most natural in Chicano English or Mexican Spanish slang contexts, not formal writing.

Etymology

From Mexican Spanish slang, tracing back to chivato, and used mainly in northwestern Mexican states like Sinaloa and Sonora before spreading into Chicano English.

Full origin of vato →

Frequently asked questions

What does “vato” mean?

The word “vato” means a casual, informal way to refer to a guy or dude, especially among Mexican-American and Chicano speakers. In plain terms, a slang word for "guy" or "dude," common in Chicano and Mexican-American speech.

How do you use “vato” in a sentence?

Here is “vato” used in a sentence: “"What's up, vato?" he said, giving his cousin a fist bump.”

What part of speech is “vato”?

“Vato” is a noun.

Where does the word “vato” come from?

The word “vato” comes from Spanish. From Mexican Spanish slang, tracing back to chivato, and used mainly in northwestern Mexican states like Sinaloa and Sonora before spreading into Chicano English.

Nearby words

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