narcotráfico

drug trafficking

noun nahr-koh-TRAH-fee-koh Rare

Origin: From narcótico (narcotic) + tráfico (trafficking).

Usage Note

Narcotráfico is a compound coined in Latin American Spanish to describe the organised trade in illegal drugs, and is particularly prominent in Mexican, Colombian, and Central American journalism. The agent noun is narcotraficante. The word entered international usage largely through coverage of the Colombian and Mexican cartels.

Examples

"El narcotráfico sigue siendo un grave problema regional."

Natural Translation

Drug trafficking remains a serious regional problem.

Related Words

Explore Spanish by topic

SpanishNow

How to Memorize Spanish Vocabulary Fast (That Sticks)

Memorize Spanish vocabulary fast with a 15-minute daily loop: spaced repetition, frequency-first words, and example-sentence cards that actually stick.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

Ser vs. Estar: When to Use Each in Spanish

Ser vs estar made simple: how you feel and where you are use estar, everything else uses ser. Master the rule, the exceptions, and the traps that flip meaning.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

The Spanish Cheek Kiss: Greeting Etiquette by Country

Two kisses in Spain, one in most of Latin America. Master the Spanish cheek kiss greeting — which cheek first, the air-kiss mechanics, and when to shake hands.

June 3, 2026 6 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