generalísimo

supreme commander

noun heh-neh-rah-LEE-see-moh Rare

Usage Note

Generalísimo is the absolute superlative of general, formed with the suffix -ísimo, and denotes the highest-ranking military commander, often with near-absolute political power. The title is historically associated with Francisco Franco (el Generalísimo) in Spain, and was also used for Chiang Kai-shek in the Spanish-speaking press. Outside historical contexts it can be used humorously for someone who acts in an authoritarian manner.

Examples

"El generalísimo presidió el desfile militar."

Natural Translation

The supreme commander presided over the military parade.

Related Words

Explore Spanish by topic

SpanishNow

Spanish Reflexive Verbs: Me, Te, Se Made Clear

Spanish reflexive verbs use me, te, se for actions you do to yourself. Master the daily-routine pattern, pronoun placement, and shifts like dormir vs dormirse.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

Spanish Subjunctive Explained Simply for Beginners

The Spanish subjunctive is a mood, not a tense — use it after a WEIRDO trigger plus que. Learn the one rule, the yo-form recipe, and the lines you already say.

June 9, 2026 5 min read

SpanishNow

How to Roll Your Rs in Spanish (Even If You Can't Yet)

Roll your Rs in Spanish by building from the butter sound you already make, then adding airflow. A step-by-step method, minimal pairs, and self-check drills.

June 3, 2026 7 min read

SpanishNow

Spanish False Friends That Cause Real Embarrassment

Spanish false friends like embarazada and excitado don't mean what you think. Learn the trap words, the right ones to say instead, and how to stop guessing.

June 3, 2026 6 min read