atlético

Atlético is a term in Spanish and Portuguese that functions as an adjective meaning athletic or pertaining to athletics. It is used to describe things related to sports, physical culture, or the qualities associated with athletic activity. In everyday language, atlético can refer to a person who is physically fit or to activities involving exercise and sport. In many countries, especially those with football traditions, the word also appears prominently in the names of sports clubs.

As a proper noun element, Atlético is commonly used as a prefix in the names of football clubs and other athletic organizations. When capitalized as part of a club’s official name, it signals a historical or aspirational connection to sport and vigor. The form atlético with a lowercase initial is used in general language, while Atlético is used in proper nouns such as club names.

Several prominent clubs worldwide use Atlético in their names. The most widely known is Atlético Madrid (officially Atlético de Madrid), a top-flight Spanish club. Other examples include Atlético Nacional in Colombia and Atlético Mineiro in Brazil. In media and fan culture, clubs named Atlético are sometimes referred to by the shorthand Atleti, a familiar nickname for supporters and commentators.

Etymologically, atlético derives from Latin athleticus, through Greek athlētikos and the French athlétique, with the suffix and spelling adapted in Spanish and Portuguese. The term thus carries a long linguistic history linked to the tradition of athletics and competitive sports.