pilas
/ˈpilas/
In Spanish, the English phrase "batteries" is translated as pilas.
The term refers to portable devices that store chemical energy to provide electricity to electronic equipment.
Which one should you use?
The word pilas is typically used for small, dry-cell batteries such as those found in a remote or a toy. In contrast, baterías is used for larger, rechargeable-type batteries like those in a car or a phone.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, pilas is the standard term for batteries. In Spain, baterías is the common term used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the word is la pila.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈpilas/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, the phrase ponerse las pilas is used as an idiom meaning to wake up, focus or start working harder.
- Depending on the region, la pila can also refer to a baptismal font, as these are traditionally built as stone basins or stacks.
- While batería refers to a power source, it is also the standard Spanish word for a set of drums in a musical context.
Examples in context
- El mando no tiene pilas.The remote control doesn't have batteries.This sentence is useful for stating that a remote control is out of pilas.Tatoeba #7038055 by arh, translation #10919291 by Luornu
- Estas pilas pueden recargarse.These batteries can be recharged.This sentence is useful for noting that these pilas are rechargeable.Tatoeba #10923583 by Seael, translation #10919287 by Luornu
- Tengo que cambiarle las pilas a la radio.I have to change the batteries in the radio.This sentence is useful for describing the need to change the pilas in a radio.Tatoeba #1617928 by Alba, translation #29774 by CK
- ¿Tienes pilas/baterías para el control remoto?Do you have batteries for the remote control?
- Compra algunos acumuladores para el sistema de energía solar.Buy some batteries for the solar power system.
- ¡No olvides llevar pilas/baterías adicionales para tu reloj durante el viaje!Don't forget to bring extra batteries for your watch during the trip!
- 17 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Mateo and Lucía are preparing for a camping trip.
- Mateo¿Trajiste las pilas para la linterna?Did you bring the batteries for the flashlight?
- LucíaSí, las puse en la mochila.Yes, I put them in the backpack.
- MateoPerfecto, las necesitaremos esta noche.Perfect, we will need them tonight.
- LucíaNo te preocupes, Mateo.Don't worry, Mateo.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry pilas, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
