“Perreo” Officially Recognized as a Spanish Word by the Real Academia Española

The Spanish Royal Academy Adds “Perreo” and Over 4,000 New Terms to the Dictionary

The Real Academia Española, the leading linguistic institution in the Spanish-speaking world, has officially recognized “perreo” as a Spanish word. “Perreo” refers to a dance performed to the rhythm of reggaeton, a popular Latin urban genre with deep roots in Puerto Rico. This addition to the dictionary reflects the global influence and cultural significance of reggaeton. The Puerto Rican Academy of the Spanish Language has long advocated for the recognition of Puerto Rican words by the Real Academia Española, and “perreo” is a notable success in their efforts.

The Evolution of “Perreo” and Reggaeton

The word “perreo” has been in common usage in Puerto Rico since the early 1990s when the first reggaeton tracks emerged. Originally known as “underground,” the genre gained popularity as artists incorporated the distinctive dem bow beats that define reggaeton today. Puerto Rican artists such as Daddy Yankee and Bad Bunny have played a crucial role in the globalization of reggaeton, with the latter even winning a Latin Grammy for Best Reggaeton Performance in 2020 for his hit song “Yo Perreo Sola.” The rise of reggaeton has led to the widespread recognition of “perreo” in Spanish-speaking countries.

Recognition by the Real Academia Española

The Real Academia Española, as the ultimate authority on the Spanish language, has the responsibility of determining which words are officially recognized. Institutions like the Puerto Rican Academy of the Spanish Language have actively advocated for the inclusion of Puerto Rican words in the dictionary. The media in Puerto Rico has played a significant role in popularizing terms like “perreo,” with newspapers featuring articles highlighting the importance of recognizing Puerto Rican Spanish. Santiago Muñoz Machado, the director of the Real Academia Española, acknowledged the influence of the Puerto Rican Academy and the media in bringing attention to “perreo” during a recent news conference.

The Definition of “Perreo”

The official definition of “perreo” provided by the Real Academia Española describes it as a dance performed to the rhythm of reggaeton, characterized by erotic hip movements. When dancing in pairs, the man typically positions himself behind the woman, with their bodies very close together. This definition captures the essence of the dance and its connection to reggaeton’s sensuality and rhythm.

Cultural Significance and Global Impact

The recognition of “perreo” as a Spanish word highlights the cultural significance and global impact of reggaeton. The genre has transcended borders and language barriers, becoming a dominant force in the music industry worldwide. Reggaeton’s infectious beats and energetic dance moves have captivated audiences, making it a staple in clubs, parties, and music charts. The inclusion of “perreo” in the dictionary solidifies its place in the lexicon of the Spanish language, acknowledging its role in contemporary culture.

A Step Towards Linguistic Inclusivity

The addition of “perreo” to the dictionary is not only a linguistic milestone but also a step towards linguistic inclusivity. Recognizing words from specific regions, such as Puerto Rico, acknowledges the diversity within the Spanish language. It reflects the richness and complexity of different dialects and cultural expressions. By embracing words like “perreo,” the Real Academia Española promotes a more inclusive and representative understanding of the Spanish language.

Conclusion: The recognition of “perreo” as a Spanish word by the Real Academia Española signifies the growing influence and cultural significance of reggaeton. This decision not only validates the efforts of the Puerto Rican Academy of the Spanish Language but also highlights the importance of linguistic inclusivity. As the Spanish language continues to evolve, it is crucial to embrace the diverse expressions and dialects that shape it. “Perreo” serves as a reminder of the power of music and dance to transcend boundaries and bring people together.