poncho

noun

pon·​cho ˈpän-(ˌ)chō How to pronounce poncho (audio)
plural ponchos
Synonyms of ponchonext
1
: a blanket with a slit in the middle so that it can be slipped over the head and worn as a sleeveless garment
2
: a waterproof garment resembling a poncho and having an integral hood

Examples of poncho in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Maybe a small, packable rain jacket or poncho, but that’s about it. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2026 Okay, Woody really does have that poncho on. Emma Specter, Vogue, 19 June 2026 The do-gooding cowboy, who helps out other toys on the regular, returns in the latest film to see his old friends wearing his signature hat and a new poncho. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 18 June 2026 If you’re headed to any outdoor festivities, bring a poncho. Aj Willingham, AJC.com, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for poncho

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish, from Mapuche

First Known Use

1717, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of poncho was in 1717

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Poncho.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poncho. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

poncho

noun
pon·​cho ˈpän-chō How to pronounce poncho (audio)
plural ponchos
1
: a cloak like a blanket with a slit in the middle for the head
2
: a waterproof garment like a poncho

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