parpadeo
/paɾpaˈdeo/
The English phrase blinking is translated into Spanish as parpadeo.
Parpadeo is a noun that refers to the act or the instance of blinking.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to express the continuous action of blinking, such as 'He is blinking', use the gerund form parpadeando. The infinitive verb form, meaning 'to blink', is parpadear.
How do you pronounce it?
/paɾpaˈdeo/
Did you know?
- While parpadear means to blink, Spanish uses a different root for 'winking' with intent, using the verb guiñar.
- In Spanish, you can use the verb parpadear to describe the technical 'blink' of a faulty light or an electronic signal, not just a human eye.
- The suffix '-ear' in parpadear is a very common way in Spanish to turn a noun into a verb that expresses a repetitive or habitual action.
Examples in context
- El médico observó el parpadeo frecuente de los ojos del paciente.The doctor observed the patient's frequent blinking.
- El parpadeo de la luz es constante.The blinking of the light is constant.
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are discussing a flickering light in the room.
- MaríaMira ese parpadeo constante de la lámpara.Look at that constant blinking of the lamp.
- AlejandroSí, creo que la bombilla está fallando.Yes, I think the bulb is failing.
- MaríaMe marea ver ese parpadeo tan rápido.That fast blinking makes me dizzy.
- AlejandroVoy a cambiarla ahora mismo, María.I am going to change it right now, María.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry parpadeo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
