nounnounadjective

el recto

straight

Definition & meaning

The word "recto" has several meanings depending on the context in which it is used:

Straight: As an adjective, it describes something that does not curve or bend. It refers to a line or a path that follows the shortest distance between two points.
Right (Geometry): In mathematics, "un ángulo recto" refers to a right angle, which is an angle of exactly 90 degrees.
Honest or Upright: When used to describe a person or their behavior, it means someone who is just, severe, and strictly adheres to moral principles or laws.
Rectum (Anatomy): As a masculine noun, "el recto" refers to the final part of the large intestine that ends at the anus.
Right side of a page: In bibliography or printing, it refers to the front side of a leaf of paper (the right-hand page when a book is open), as opposed to the "verso" or back side.

Grammar & Word origin

"Recto" functions primarily as an adjective, meaning it must agree in gender and number with the noun it modifies (recto, recta, rectos, rectas). It can also function as a masculine noun.

The word comes from the Latin rectus, which means "straight" or "right." This is the past participle of the Latin verb regere, which means "to lead," "to rule," or "to guide." This etymological root is shared with many other Spanish words related to rules and direction, such as regla and dirigir.