1. people of mixed Spanish and indigenous American ancestry, especially in Central America
Usage: anthropological term; primarily used in Central American contexts
2. Spanish-speaking people of indigenous descent who have adopted European customs and culture
Usage: historical; cultural assimilation context

Examples

• The ladinos formed a significant portion of Guatemala’s population.
• Many ladinos served as intermediaries between Spanish colonists and indigenous communities.
• The cultural identity of ladinos reflects both Spanish and indigenous influences.
• Ladinos often spoke Spanish as their primary language while maintaining some indigenous traditions.
• The social hierarchy placed ladinos between Europeans and indigenous peoples.
• Modern ladinos continue to play important roles in Central American society.