Definition
Cool and pleasantly refreshing, or recently made and not stale. Also used to describe fresh air or cool weather.
Example
El aire de la mañana estaba fresco y agradable.
Show translation
The morning air was cool and pleasant.
Etymology
From Latin *frīscus*, borrowed from Proto-Germanic *friskaz* (meaning fresh, vigorous). The word entered Spanish via Old Italian *fresco*, sharing its root with the English "fresh," French *frais*, and Italian *fresco* (also the name of the painting technique done on wet, fresh plaster).
Cultural note
In Latin America, *fresco* is also a common word for a cold, refreshing fruit drink — similar to a agua fresca. In parts of Colombia and Central America, ordering "un fresco" at a restaurant means you want a chilled fruit beverage. Additionally, Spaniards may call a cheeky, overly familiar person "un fresco" — meaning someone with a lot of nerve — so context matters!