One of the most fascinating things about learning a new language is discovering words that simply don’t exist in your own language. Spanish has some beautiful and unique words that don’t have a direct English translation. Let’s explore a few of them!
1. Sobremesa
Imagine finishing a delicious meal, but instead of rushing to clear the table, you stay and chat with friends or family for a long time. That’s sobremesa—the special time spent talking at the table after eating.
✅ Me encanta la sobremesa con mi familia los domingos.
(I love the time spent chatting with my family after Sunday lunch.)
2. Madrugar
In English, we say «wake up early,» but in Spanish, there’s a single verb for it: madrugar. If you wake up very early, you are a madrugador/a!
✅ Mañana tengo que madrugar para coger el tren.
(Tomorrow I have to wake up early to catch the train.)
3. Estrenar
This word describes the first time you wear or use something new. Whether it’s a dress, a car, or even a house, estrenar captures the excitement of using something for the very first time.
✅ Hoy voy a estrenar mis zapatos nuevos.
(Today I’m going to wear my new shoes for the first time.)
4. Friolero/a
Do you always feel cold, even when others don’t? In Spanish, there’s a word for that! A friolero/a is someone who is sensitive to the cold.
✅ Soy muy friolera, siempre necesito una chaqueta.
(I’m very sensitive to the cold; I always need a jacket.)
5. Desvelado/a
If you’ve ever had a sleepless night, you know how it feels to be desvelado/a. This word describes someone who is tired from not being able to sleep.
✅ Estoy desvelado porque me quedé viendo una serie hasta tarde.
(I’m exhausted because I stayed up late watching a series.)
Which One is Your Favourite?
Spanish is full of these special words that don’t have a direct English translation. Have you come across any others? Share them in the comments!
Written by Aimee Wilkinson, Principal at The Harrogate International Academy
