dicho

Dicho is a noun in Spanish that refers to a short, conventional expression that conveys a commonly held truth, wisdom, or practical guidance. Dichos are often called sayings, proverbs, or maxims in English, and they are a staple of folklore and everyday speech. They are typically brief, memorable, and occasionally rhymed or parallel in form, designed to be easily recalled and transmitted.

Dicho derives from the participle of decir, meaning "said." As a grammatical form, dicho also serves as the past participle of decir in compound tenses (ha dicho, ya dicho, etc.). As a noun, it is masculine singular (un dicho) with the plural dichos.

Dichos vary by language and culture, with regional collections known as dichos populares. They may express moral judgments, practical advice, or social observations, and are often used to illustrate a point or to comment on a situation. The terms refrán and proverbio are closely related, though refrán often carries a fixed, often rhymed form, while dicho is a broader label that can include modern or colloquial sayings. Notable examples include "A quien madruga, Dios le ayuda," "Más vale tarde que nunca," and "Dime con quién andas y te diré quién eres." Dichos play a role in literature, oratory, and everyday speech as compact vessels of cultural wisdom.