despedida
/despeˈdida/
The Spanish word for farewell is despedida.
despedida refers to the act or the event of saying goodbye, such as a farewell party or a formal send-off event. While despedida is the noun for the event itself, the word Adiós is the most common and simplest way to actually say farewell to someone.
What does it mean word for word?
despedida is derived from the verb despedir, which means to dismiss or to say goodbye.
Which one should you use?
despedida refers to the act or the event of a farewell, whereas Adiós is the actual word used to bid someone goodbye.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain regions, such as South America, Adiós might be perceived as somewhat final and is better used for long-term farewells.
How does it change in a sentence?
despedida is a feminine noun, so its plural form is despedidas.
How do you pronounce it?
/despeˈdida/
Did you know?
- A despedida de soltero is a bachelor or bachelorette party, literally translating to a 'farewell to the single state'.
- The common parting phrase Adiós is actually a contraction of 'A Dios', which historically functions as a prayer meaning 'To God' or 'May God be with you'.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, a despedida can last for hours, as it is customary to continue talking at the door or in the hallway long after the formal goodbye has begun.
Examples in context
- La despedida fue muy emocionante.The farewell was very emotional.
- Le dieron una despedida especial en el aeropuerto.They gave him a special farewell at the airport.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are at a train station saying goodbye to a friend.
- LucíaFue una despedida muy triste.It was a very sad farewell.
- MateoSí, pero pronto volveremos a verlo.Yes, but we will see him again soon.
- LucíaEspero que el viaje sea tranquilo.I hope the trip is peaceful.
- MateoSeguro que sí, Lucía.I am sure it will be, Lucía.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry despedida, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
