poncho

noun

pon·​cho ˈpän-(ˌ)chō 

plural ponchos

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

So for those out at the game, bring a poncho or umbrella in case of rain and be ready to move inside if a thunderstorm happens to impact the North Shore. —Trey Fulbright, CBS News, 3 Apr. 2026

Pack a poncho or raincoat and bring layers to prepare for unpredictable Texas weather. —Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 9 Mar. 2026

For example, this travel wrap, with more than 8,300 five-star ratings, functions as a cardigan, poncho, cape, and shawl. —Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 8 Mar. 2026

His bulk, shrouded in a floor-length poncho, appeared almost weightless, ectoplasmic. —Literary Hub, 13 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

American Spanish, from Mapuche

First Known Use

1717, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for poncho

• broncho
• concho

Kids Definition

poncho

noun

pon·​cho ˈpän-chō 

plural ponchos

1

: a cloak like a blanket with a slit in the middle for the head

2

: a waterproof garment like a poncho