aficionado

Definition

An amateur bullfighter.

Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish aficionado (“fan, amateur”), past participle of aficionar (“to inspire fondness in someone, to get someone interested in something”). Doublet of affectionate.

Example Sentences

• "To the "closet" taxonomist and aficionado of nomenclatural exercises, such emphasis may seem an intrusion."
• "A journey along the Conwy Valley line is one to savour for aficionados of scenic railways."