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 Try looking for a shape that's less poncho-y and more trench-esque—that is, with a collar and separate sleeves. — Amber Rambharose, InStyle, 29 June 2026 Another configuration is the poncho or cloak mode, which can be used around camp. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 2 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

Rhymes for poncho

See All Rhymes for poncho

Browse Nearby Words

Ponchielli
poncho
ponchoed
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Poncho.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poncho. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on poncho

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for poncho

Nglish: Translation of poncho for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about poncho

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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