encendedor
/enθendeˈdoɾ/
The English phrase 'cigarette lighter' is translated into Spanish as encendedor.
The noun encendedor translates to 'lighter' in English and refers to a small portable device used to create a flame.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the verb encender, meaning 'to light' or 'to ignite', combined with the suffix '-dor', which denotes an agent or tool.
Is it said differently in some regions?
While mechero is common in Spain, encendedor is the standard term used across most of Latin America.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of the noun is encendedores.
How do you pronounce it?
/enθendeˈdoɾ/
Did you know?
- While encendedor describes the tool, the act of lighting a cigarette is often expressed using the phrase dar fuego, which literally means 'to give fire'.
- The word encender is also used in Spanish to describe turning on an electronic device, such as a lamp or a computer.
- In many Spanish-speaking Caribbean countries, you might hear people use the word chispero to refer to a lighter, which is derived from 'chispa' or 'spark'.
Examples in context
- ¿Me puedes pasar el mechero, por favor?Can you pass me the lighter, please?
- ¿Tienes un encendedor de bolsillo?Do you have a pocket lighter?
- Necesito un encendedor para la fogata.I need a lighter for the campfire.
- ¿Me prestas tu encendedor un momento?Will you lend me your lighter for a moment?
- El encendedor de la mesa no funciona.The lighter on the table does not work.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Lucía are at a social gathering outdoors.
- Alejandro¿Tienes un encendedor, Lucía?Do you have a lighter, Lucía?
- LucíaSí, tengo uno en mi bolso.Yes, I have one in my purse.
- AlejandroGracias, lo necesito para la vela.Thanks, I need it for the candle.
- LucíaDe nada, aquí tienes.You're welcome, here you go.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry encendedor, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
