cerámica
/θeˈɾamika/feminine
The English word ceramics is translated into Spanish as cerámica.
cerámica is a noun used to refer to ceramic objects as a collective group.
Meaning: ceramic objects as a group (noun)
Which one should you use?
cerámica is the noun used for the objects or the art form itself. To describe something as being made of ceramic material, you would use the adjective cerámico or cerámica.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the word Cacharrería is used colloquially to refer to ceramics.
How does it change in a sentence?
While English often uses the plural word 'ceramics' to describe the category, Spanish uses the singular collective noun la cerámica. You may use the plural form cerámicas when you are specifically referring to different types or various collections of ceramic works.
How do you pronounce it?
/θeˈɾamika/
Did you know?
- In Spain, the colloquial term cacharrería can be used for ceramic goods, but it is derived from cacharros, a word that can also describe a clumsy or useless person.
- While cerámica is the general term, a Spanish speaker might use alfarería specifically when referring to the craft of the potter and the rustic nature of the work.
- In Spanish, the word cacharros can describe both ceramic pots and people who are clumsy or awkward.
Examples in context
- Esta tienda vende cerámica.This store sells ceramics.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use cerámica in a commercial context.Tatoeba #8557918 by ManuelML, translation #10242212 by LimeGreenTeknii
- La alfarería mexicana es reconocida por su belleza y tradición.Mexican pottery is renowned for its beauty and tradition.
- La cerámica es mi pasión.Ceramics is my passion.
- Me gusta mucho la cerámica de esta región.I really like the ceramics from this region.
Example conversation
Sofía and Mateo are visiting an art gallery.
- SofíaMira toda esta cerámica antigua.Look at all these ancient ceramics.
- MateoEs impresionante el detalle de las piezas.The detail of the pieces is impressive.
- Sofía¿Tú también te interesas por la cerámica?Are you also interested in ceramics?
- MateoSí, me gustaría aprender a hacerla.Yes, I would like to learn how to make them.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “ceramics” translations and entries cerámica, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
