limpio

Limpio is a Spanish adjective meaning clean, neat, or orderly. It describes objects, spaces, or people free from dirt, stains, or contamination, as in una casa limpia or agua limpia. In a broader sense, limpio can also express moral or legal purity, as in una conciencia limpia or un negocio limpio.

Etymology and related forms: Limpio comes from Latin limpidus, meaning clear or pure, and has cognates in other Romance languages (Portuguese limpo, Italian limpido). Its core sense is cleanliness and purity, which extends to figurative uses such as honest conduct or legitimate origin.

Grammar and usage: The word agrees in gender and number: limpio (masc singular), limpia (fem singular), limpios (masc plural), limpias (fem plural). With estar, it marks a temporary state (La casa está limpia). With ser, it can reference a more inherent or characteristic quality, including honesty or integrity (un hombre limpio, un negocio limpio). Expressions such as dinero limpio (legitimate money) and juego limpio (fair play) illustrate broader applications.

Nuances and synonyms: Pulcro is a close synonym that often conveys meticulous cleanliness or care, while inmaculado emphasizes spotless breadth. Antonyms include sucio, manchado, and contaminado. In regional usage, limpio also appears in idioms and fixed phrases related to hygiene, order, and ethical behavior.

See also: Cleanliness, Pulcro, Sucio, Dinero limpio, Juego limpio.