clip
/ˈklip/
The Spanish word for clip is clip.
The English term 'Clip' is often used by Spanish speakers in informal contexts.
Meaning: to cut, especially with scissors or shears as opposed to a knife etc. (verb)
Which one should you use?
For industrial or construction fasteners, abrazadera is used. For a small hook or loop, presilla is used. In formal contexts, broche can be used to refer to a clip, though it primarily means brooch.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The word presilla is used in some regions to describe a small hook or loop used to hold or fasten items together.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈklip/
Did you know?
- The word abrazadera is used for industrial clips and derives from the verb abrazar, meaning 'to hug'.
- While clip is used for fasteners, Spanish speakers use the word clip to refer to a short music video, which is a shortening of the English term 'videoclip'.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, the term presilla is used for a small hook or loop, though it can also refer to the loop on a military uniform sleeve.
Examples in context
- pendientes de clipClip-on earringsThis example shows how to use clip in the context of earrings.
- Por favor, puedes traerme una grapaPlease, can you bring me a clip?
- ¿Dónde puedo encontrar un pasador para el pelo?Where can I find a hair clip?
Example conversation
Mateo and Lucía are working on a scrapbooking project.
- MateoLucía, ¿tienes unas tijeras?Lucía, do you have some scissors?
- LucíaSí, aquí están, Mateo.Yes, here they are, Mateo.
- MateoGracias, necesito clip esta foto.Thanks, I need to clip this photo.
- LucíaTen cuidado de no cortar demasiado.Be careful not to cut too much.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry clip, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries clip, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
