The word "pagano" is primarily an adjective, but it can also function as a noun.
/pagano/
In Spanish, "pagano" typically refers to someone who practices paganism, which can involve various polytheistic, nature-oriented, or ancestral religious beliefs that often predate or exist outside of mainstream religions like Christianity, Judaism, or Islam. In colloquial use, it can also describe someone who acts contrary to religious norms, or it might be used more loosely to refer to behaviors that are perceived as morally questionable.
"Pagano" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, though it may appear more frequently in written texts discussing religion, anthropology, or cultural studies.
"El amigo de Juan es un pagano que celebra rituales antiguos."
"Juan's friend is a pagan who celebrates ancient rituals."
"Algunos consideran que ciertas festividades modernas tienen raíces paganas."
"Some believe that certain modern festivities have pagan roots."
"Los paganos suelen adorar a múltiples dioses."
"Pagans often worship multiple gods."
The word "pagano" does not have a very extensive range of idiomatic expressions. However, it can be found in contexts referring to cultural or religious practices, or in descriptions of moral behavior.
"Hacer algo a lo pagano."
"To do something the pagan way."
This phrase implies acting according to ancient or nature-based beliefs rather than societal norms.
"La festividad tiene un origen pagano."
"The celebration has a pagan origin."
This denotes a celebration that can be traced back to pre-Christian traditions.
"Ser pagano en una sociedad muy religiosa puede ser complicado."
"Being pagan in a very religious society can be complicated."
This highlights the challenges faced by individuals practicing non-mainstream beliefs.
The term "pagano" derives from the latinate word "paganus," which originally meant "rural" or "rustic." In the context of early Christianity, it started to refer to country dwellers who continued to practice traditional Roman polytheistic religions as urban areas became predominantly Christian.