Majo

A majo (masc.) or maja (fem.) was a member of the Madrid artistic scene of the early nineteenth century (and also to some extent the late 18th and late 19th), who distinguished themselves by their pure, gracious use of the Castilian language and their elaborate outfits. They were people from the lower classes of society who nevertheless had great style and verve, and made sure they always looked good. Majos were one the subjects of the painter Francisco Goya.

Related Topics:
Madrid - Nineteenth century - Castilian language - Francisco Goya

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The term later became a more general word meaning "pretty" or "nice looking" (synonymous with bonito). This meaning survives in modern Spanish.

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A more recent twist in the meaning turns majo into a simple synonym of simpático, i.e. it is an adjective referring to anyone who is "nice" or has a pleasant personality. This is the commonest use these days, although some Spaniards occasionally complain that it is not the true meaning.

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In Spanish, the word possesses derived forms such as the diminutive majete and the superlative majísimo.

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The use of the word is particularly widespread in Aragon, where expressions such as ¡Hala, majete, no te pases!, "Hey, sunshine, watch yourself!" are common. The Aragonese are also known to add their typical diminutive suffix -ico to the word, thus producing majico, meaning "sweet", "cute".

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