lápida
/ˈlapida/
The English word headstone is lápida in Spanish.
A headstone is a stone marker placed at the head of a grave to identify the person buried there.
Which one should you use?
While lápida is the standard term, la piedra sepulcral is used specifically when a more formal tone is required. In certain regions, other terms are preferred depending on the type of marker.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico and Argentina, monumento or lápida conmemorativa can be used as alternatives to lápida for certain types of headstones. In Spain, losa funeraria is an alternative to lápida.
How does it change in a sentence?
Lápida is a feminine noun. The plural form is lápidas.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈlapida/
Did you know?
- The word lápida shares a common linguistic ancestor with the word lápiz meaning 'pencil'. Both originate from the Latin word for 'stone', as early writing tools were made from minerals.
- Spanish has a specific cultural tradition of 'cleaning' the lápidas during the month of November, specifically around Día de Muertos, as a communal act of remembrance.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, it is common to place ofrendas like fresh flowers, photographs or small toys on a lápida to maintain a living connection with the deceased.
Examples in context
- La lápida estaba bellamente tallada con diseños intrincados.The headstone was beautifully carved with intricate designs.
- La lápida es de mármol blanco.The headstone is made of white marble.
- Limpiamos la lápida de la tumba.We cleaned the headstone of the grave.
- Pusieron una nueva lápida en el cementerio.They put a new headstone in the cemetery.
Example conversation
Lucía and Daniel are visiting a family grave.
- LucíaMira, la lápida está muy desgastada.Look, the headstone is very worn down.
- DanielTienes razón, Lucía, se ve vieja.You're right, Lucía, it looks old.
- Lucía¿Deberíamos comprar una lápida nueva?Should we buy a new headstone?
- DanielEs una buena idea para honrar su memoria.It is a good idea to honor his memory.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry lápida, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lápida, CC BY-SA 4.0.
