12 Weird Words in Spanish

There are many Spanish words that cannot be directly translated into English.

Familiarity with these peculiar Spanish words can not only aid in understanding native speakers but also provide numerous new avenues for expressing ideas.

This article will introduce you to 10 distinctive Spanish words and illustrate their usage.

15 Weird Words in Spanish

Here are our top 15 picks for weird words in Spanish:

Provecho

“¡provecho!” is a common expression used in Spanish-speaking cultures, particularly in Latin America to say “bon appétit” before eating.

It can be translated to “enjoy your meal” or “have a nice meal” in English. It is often used in restaurants or when sharing a meal with others.

Lampiño

“Lampiño” is a Spanish word that translates to “hairless” or “shaven” in English. It is commonly used to describe a person who has little or no facial hair or body hair.

Manco / Manca

“Manco” is a Spanish word that translates to “one-armed” or “one-handed” in English.

It is commonly used to describe a person who has lost one of their arms or hands, or who was born with a congenital deformity that resulted in the underdevelopment or absence of one arm or hand.

It is also used by gamers to describe users who can’t play a video game really well.

Tuerta / Tuerto

“Tuerto” or “Tuerta” is a Spanish word that translates to “one-eyed” or “one-eyed person” in English.

“Tuerto” or “Tuerta” is commonly used to describe a person who has lost one of their eyes or who was born with only one eye.

In some contexts, the term can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who has limited perception or understanding of a situation.

Morbo

In Spanish, “morbo” is a term that has different meanings depending on the context in which it is used.

One common usage of “morbo” refers to a fascination with the macabre or disturbing. It can refer to a morbid curiosity, a desire to seek out and explore things that are gruesome, taboo, or forbidden.

Another usage of “morbo” is related to sexual desire or eroticism. It can refer to a particular kink or fetish, or to an intense fascination with sexual acts or experiences that are considered taboo or unconventional.

Empalagar

“Empalagar” is a Spanish verb commonly used to describe something, particularly food or drink, that is excessively sweet or rich, to the point where it becomes overwhelming or sickening.

The verb “empalagar” can also be used figuratively to describe a person or behavior that is excessively sweet in a way that becomes tiresome or irritating. In this context, it can be used to describe someone who is overly affectionate or sentimental, or who is excessively insincere or flattering.

Quincena

“Quincena” is a Spanish word that refers to a period of two weeks, specifically the first or the fifteenth day of a month, when many people receive their salary or payment. The term is commonly used in Latin American countries to refer to a pay period or to indicate when bills or other financial obligations are due.

In some countries, such as Mexico and other Central American countries, “quincena” has a cultural significance as it marks a time when families gather together, share meals, and engage in social activities.

It is also a time when many businesses offer promotions or discounts to attract customers who have just received their salary or payment.

Estrenar

“Estrenar” is a Spanish verb that means “to debut” or “to wear or use something for the first time.”

“Estrenar” is commonly used when referring to new items or experiences that are being used or enjoyed for the very first time.

Antier

“Antier” is a Spanish word that is commonly used in some Latin American countries, particularly in Mexico, to refer to the day before yesterday.

“Antier” is a combination of the words “ante” (before) and “ayer” (yesterday).

Forrarse

In Spanish, “forrarse” is a colloquial expression that means “to get rich” or “to make a lot of money.”

It Is important to note that “forrarse” is a slang term and may not be appropriate for formal or professional settings.

Friolento / Friolenta

“Friolento” or “friolenta” is a Spanish word that refers to someone who is sensitive to the cold or feels cold easily.

Madrugar

“Madrugar” is a Spanish verb that means “to wake up early” or “to get up at dawn”.

Madrugar is commonly used to refer to the act of waking up earlier than usual, typically in the morning.

Merienda

Merienda is a term used in some Spanish-speaking countries to refer to a light meal or snack that is typically consumed in the late afternoon or early evening, between lunch and dinner.

In Costa Rica, Merienda is commonly used to refer to the snacks eaten by kids in school.

Trasnochar

“Trasnochar” is a Spanish verb that means to stay up late at night, to pull an all-nighter, or to stay awake until the early hours of the morning.

“Trasnochar” is a combination of the words “tras” (after) and “noche” (night).

Trasnochar can be used in different contexts, such as for studying, partying, or working.