bolsillo
Lemma Details
Translation: pocket; small bag; pouch; purse
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Diminutive of 'bolso' (bag, purse), which comes from Late Latin 'bursa' meaning 'leather bag'. The diminutive suffix '-illo' indicates a smaller version. This shares roots with English words like 'purse' and 'bursary', all ultimately from Greek 'byrsa' meaning 'hide, leather'. The evolution from 'bursa' to 'bolso' shows the common b/p alternation in Romance languages.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Tengo las llaves en el bolsillo.
I have the keys in my pocket.
Este gasto va a salir de mi bolsillo.
This expense will come out of my pocket.
Compré una edición de bolsillo de Don Quijote.
I bought a pocket edition of Don Quixote.
No me alcanza el bolsillo para ese coche.
I can't afford that car (lit: my pocket doesn't stretch that far).
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'small ball' (bol-) that fits in your pocket (-sillo).
- Associate with 'bolsa' (bag) but smaller - something that fits in your pocket.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'bolsillo' is frequently used in expressions related to personal finances. The concept of 'libro de bolsillo' (pocket book) refers specifically to paperback books, which are more affordable and portable than hardcovers.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Bolsillo' means 'pocket' (part of clothing), while 'bolso' means 'bag' or 'purse' (a separate accessory).
Notes: Both words share the same etymology, but 'bolsillo' specifically refers to pockets sewn into clothing, while 'bolso' is a separate carrying accessory.
Mnemonic: 'Bolsillo' ends with '-illo' (diminutive) because a pocket is a small version of a bag ('bolso').
Explanation: Both are diminutives, but 'bolsillo' means 'pocket' while 'bolsito' means 'small bag' or 'small purse'.
Confused word:
Compré un bolsito para llevar mi maquillaje.
I bought a small bag to carry my makeup.
Notes: Both are diminutives but of different base words: 'bolsillo' from historical 'bolso' (now meaning bag), and 'bolsito' as a modern diminutive of 'bolso'.
Mnemonic: 'Bolsillo' is part of clothing; 'bolsito' is a separate small accessory.