Catchword: naco

Filed under: Spanish, Mexico, United States

Part of speech: adj.

Quotation: In Great Britain, they’re known as “Kevins.” In the U.S., the words “nerd,” “redneck” and “cheesy” come to mind. For Mexicans, it’s “naco”—a term that covers everything from guys draped in gold chains to people who dance funny. Some Mexicans still find the word offensive. It was initially a derogatory term used to insult indigenous people and the poor. But for many, “naco” has morphed into a term that represents personal style—or lack thereof—rather than class or wealth.

Article or document title:
“Day to Day: It’s Hip to Be ‘Naco’” (URL)

Article, document, publication, web site:
NPR

Date of publication:
July 8, 2004

This cite belongs to a full entry for naco.