Noun
/nako/
The term "naco" is commonly used in Mexico and, to some extent, in Central America and parts of the United States, particularly among Spanish-speaking communities. It refers to a person who is perceived as unsophisticated or lacking in education, often with connotations of being unrefined or vulgar. The term can be derogatory and is frequently used to criticize someone's behavior, fashion sense, or social status.
In frequency of use, "naco" is more prevalent in oral speech than in written context. It's often used in colloquial and informal settings.
Esa fiesta estaba llena de nacos que no sabían cómo comportarse.
That party was full of rednecks who didn't know how to behave.
No quiero parecer naco, así que usaré una camisa diferente.
I don't want to seem unsophisticated, so I'll wear a different shirt.
La película retrataba la vida de un naco en un barrio popular.
The movie depicted the life of a bumpkin in a working-class neighborhood.
While "naco" itself does not form many idiomatic expressions, it can often be found in colloquial phrases that criticize behavior or lifestyle choices.
No seas naco y vístete mejor.
(Don't be a bumpkin and dress better.)
Esa manera de hablar es muy naca para este lugar.
(That way of speaking is too unsophisticated for this place.)
Me siento naco al no entender la obra de arte.
(I feel unsophisticated not understanding the artwork.)
Los nacos suelen seguir modas que no son elegantes.
(Rednecks often follow fashions that are not elegant.)
Hablar así solo te hace ver más naco.
(Talking like that only makes you look more like a bumpkin.)
Ese tipo es un naco, pero tiene un buen corazón.
(That guy is a rube, but he has a good heart.)
The word "naco" likely has its origins in the Nahuatl language, which is the language spoken by the Aztecs and still used by some Indigenous peoples in Mexico. The exact etymology isn't clear, but many suggest it may derive from "nacóatl," which relates to being a simple or plain person.