Baby
A very common and affectionate way to say 'baby boy' (nene) or 'baby girl' (nena).
Means 'little one'. A loving term used for babies and small children.
The primary word for 'baby' in several countries. It comes from the Quechua language.
Used like 'baby' as a term of endearment for a romantic partner. Means 'my love'.
The baby is sleeping in the crib.
What a cute baby girl! What's her name?
My husband and I are going to have a baby.
Hi, baby. Are we going to the movies?
'Bebé' is universally understood and is the most standard term. 'Nene/nena' is also extremely common.
'Guagua' is the most common word for baby in these Andean countries. Using 'bebé' is also correct, but 'guagua' is more local and frequent.
'Bebé' is standard. You will also hear 'bebe' (without the accent, stress on the first syllable: BEH-beh) in casual conversation. 'Nene/nena' is very common.
'Bebé' is the standard and most-used word. 'Nene/nena' is also used affectionately.
'Bebé' is the standard term. They do not use 'guagua' to mean baby; in the Canary Islands, 'guagua' means 'bus'.
Saying 'BEH-beh' instead of 'beh-BEH'. — The stress is on the last syllable. 'Bebé' (beh-BEH) is 'baby'. 'Bebe' (BEH-beh) means 'he/she drinks'. The accent mark (tilde) tells you where to put the stress.
Worrying about gender with 'bebé'. — Technically, 'bebé' is a masculine noun. You say 'el bebé' even for a baby girl. To be specific, it's easier to use 'la nena' (the baby girl) or 'el nene' (the baby boy).
Using the English word 'baby' for a partner. — While some people might understand, it's not natural Spanish. Use 'mi amor' ('my love'), 'cariño' ('darling'), or 'corazón' ('sweetheart') instead.
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