sombrero
Americannoun
plural
sombrerosnoun
Other Word Forms
- sombreroed adjective
Etymology
Origin of sombrero
First recorded in 1590–1600; from Spanish: “hat,” derivative of sombra “shade”; somber
Explanation
In English, the word sombrero refers specifically to a type of wide-brimmed hat traditionally worn in Mexico, but in Spanish, it is simply the word for a hat of any kind. The type of hat most often referred to as a sombrero in English is actually called a sombrero de charro — meaning "cowboy hat" — in Mexico. These hats are often decorated with intricate patterns and colorful designs, and are traditionally made of straw. The sombrero plays a significant role in Mexican culture, commonly seen at festivals, celebrations, and traditional dances.
Vocabulary lists containing sombrero
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“Don’t worry, be happy,” Maduro said at an event in the capital of Caracas, wearing a sombrero and flashing a peace sign as he sang along to the Bobby McFerrin classic.
From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 30, 2025
Liam Gallagher played to the locals, donning a sombrero de charro during “Wonderwall” and the show closer “Champagne Supernova.”
From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 16, 2025
A black sombrero hangs on a wall outside the recording booth and a bold neon sign flashes in white: “Ya es Tiempo,” the time is now.
From Seattle Times • Oct. 12, 2023
En mayo, compitió en su primer torneo público de artes marciales en Redwood City, California, al que asistió encubierto hasta el momento en que se quitó el sombrero y las gafas de sol para pelear.
From New York Times • Jul. 4, 2023
She walked ahead and Matt followed, pulling the broad-brimmed sombrero down to hide his face.
From "The House of the Scorpion" by Nancy Farmer
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
