diente de león
/ˌdjente de leˈon/masculine
The English phrase 'common dandelion' is translated into Spanish as diente de león.
The term refers to the most common and well-known type of dandelion.
Meaning: most common and well-known dandelion (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase diente de león literally translates to 'lion's tooth', referring to the jagged shape of the leaves.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the term Amargón is often used to refer to the common dandelion.
How does it change in a sentence?
When pluralizing the phrase, only the noun diente changes to dientes, while the rest of the phrase remains the same, as in los dientes de león.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌdjente de leˈon/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, the diente de león is not just a weed but is used to make a traditional digestive tonic or tea.
- The Spanish word diente shares a deep linguistic root with the English word 'dentist' through their common Latin ancestor dēns.
- In Spanish culinary contexts, diente de león leaves are frequently used in salads, though they are praised for their sharp, bitter profile.
Examples in context
- El diente de león es muy amarillo.The common dandelion is very yellow.
- Encontré un diente de león en el jardín.I found a common dandelion in the garden.
- Ese diente de león tiene muchas semillas.That common dandelion has many seeds.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are walking through a meadow.
- Javier¿Ves ese diente de león allí?Do you see that common dandelion there?
- ElenaSí, es muy bonito.Yes, it is very beautiful.
- JavierMe gusta su color.I like its color.
- ElenaA mí también.Me too.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “common dandelion” translations and entries diente de león, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, diente, león, CC BY-SA 4.0.
