sombrero
/somˈbɾeɾo/masculine
The Spanish word for hat is sombrero.
sombrero is a masculine noun used to refer to a hat. In technical or formal contexts, you may also use cubrecabezas to refer to protective headgear.
Meaning: a head covering (noun)
Which one should you use?
While sombrero refers to a brimmed hat, a gorra is specifically used for a cap, such as a baseball cap. For a brimless, warm hat like a beanie or a knit cap, use the word gorro.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the word chistera is used specifically to refer to a top hat or a fancy hat.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of sombrero is sombreros.
How do you pronounce it?
/somˈbɾeɾo/
Did you know?
- The word sombrero is built from the word sombra, which means 'shadow'.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, tipping your sombrero is a traditional sign of respect or a non-verbal greeting when entering a room.
- The Mexican sombrero charro is not just a hat but a symbol of national identity and a required part of the traditional 'charro' horseman's outfit.
Examples in context
- El sombrero es tuyo.The hat is yours.This sentence demonstrates possession of the sombrero.Tatoeba #1063316 by Shishir, translation #489513 by adjusting
- Me puse mi sombrero.I put my hat on.This sentence shows the action of putting on a sombrero.Tatoeba #2437922 by marcelostockle, translation #6633193 by bpeel
- Se puso un sombrero.He put on a hat.This sentence illustrates someone putting on a sombrero.Tatoeba #4426510 by Serafin, translation #4426145 by AlanF_US
- Tengo que comprar un sombrero nuevo para la boda.I need to buy a new hat for the wedding.
- ¡No te olvides de llevar tu gorra a la playa!Don't forget to bring your hat to the beach!
- 230 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and María are getting ready to go to the beach.
- María¿Dónde está mi sombrero?Where is my hat?
- DanielEstá sobre la mesa, María.It is on the table, María.
- MaríaGracias, Daniel.Thanks, Daniel.
- DanielDe nada, es un sombrero muy bonito.You're welcome, it is a very pretty hat.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hat” translations and entries sombrero, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sombrero, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
