goma de pelo
/ɡoma de pelo/from spelling rules
The Spanish phrase for hair elastic is goma de pelo.
The term refers to a small, stretchy loop used to tie back and hold hair in place.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of goma (rubber or elastic) and de pelo (of hair).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In many Latin American countries, the term colita is used colloquially to refer to a hair elastic or to the ponytail itself. The term colita literally means 'little tail'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɡoma de pelo/
Did you know?
- The word goma originates from the Ancient Greek word κόμμι, which referred to resin or gum.
- The word goma does not just mean 'rubber' but is also the common word for an 'eraser' in many Spanish speaking countries.
- The word pelo is used for human hair, but Spanish often switches to cabello when referring specifically to the hair on the head in a more formal or aesthetic context.
Examples in context
- ¿Me prestas una goma para el cabello?Can you lend me a hair elastic?
- Necesito una goma de pelo.I need a hair elastic.
- ¿Tienes una goma de pelo negra?Do you have a black hair elastic?
- Se me rompió la goma de pelo.My hair elastic broke.
Example conversation
María is getting ready to go for a run in the park.
- María¿Tienes una goma de pelo para mí?Do you have a hair elastic for me?
- AlejandroSí, busca en el cajón de la entrada.Yes, look in the entrance drawer.
- MaríaGracias, ya encontré la goma de pelo.Thanks, I already found the hair elastic.
- AlejandroPerfecto, ahora puedes salir a correr.Perfect, now you can go for a run.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, goma, pelo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
