chancla
/ˈt͡ʃankla/
The English phrase "flip-flop" is translated into Spanish as chancla.
The term is used for any lightweight, open-toed footwear like slides or flip-flops, rather than just one specific style.
Which one should you use?
The plural form chanclas is frequently used to refer to a pair of flip-flops, whereas the singular chancla refers to a single sandal.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtʃankla/
When do people say it?
In many Spanish-speaking households, la chancla is a culturally recognized symbol of a mother's quick disciplinary tool.
Did you know?
- The word chancla is a linguistic descendant of the Late Latin zanca, which originally described soft footwear worn in the ancient Parthian Empire.
- The phrase andar en chanclas can be used idiomatically to describe someone who is acting too casually or lacks professionalism in a formal setting.
- In many Latin American communities, la chancla has evolved into a widespread internet meme representing the perceived pinpoint accuracy of a mother's throw.
Examples in context
- ¡Me pegaron con la chancleta!They hit me with the flip-flop!
- Se me perdió una chancla en el parque.I lost one flip-flop in the park.
- Esa chancla es muy cómoda.That slide sandal is very comfortable.
Example conversation
Alejandro and María are at home getting ready to go out.
- María¿Viste mi chancla azul, Alejandro?Did you see my blue flip-flop, Alejandro?
- AlejandroCreo que está debajo del sofá.I think it is under the sofa.
- MaríaSí, aquí está la chancla.Yes, here is the flip-flop.
- AlejandroPerfecto, ahora podemos irnos.Perfect, now we can leave.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry chancla, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chancla, CC BY-SA 4.0.
