narguile
/naɾˈɡile/masculine
The English word 'hookah' is translated into Spanish as narguile. Wiktionary also lists shisha.
Meaning: pipe (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| narguile | /naɾˈɡile/ | masculine |
| shisha | /ˈʃiʃa/ | feminine |
Which one should you use?
The feminine form shisha is also used to refer to the same device, often in more modern or international contexts.
Is it said differently in some regions?
shisha is an informal term for hookah used in Spain and other places with Arabic cultural influences.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using the masculine form narguile, the definite article is el. When using the feminine form shisha, the definite article is la.
How do you pronounce it?
/naɾˈɡile/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word narguile actually traces its roots back to the word for 'coconut' in Sanskrit, via Persian.
- In Spanish, shisha often refers specifically to the flavored tobacco paste used in the pipe, rather than the device itself.
- While narguile is the standard term in dictionaries, you are far more likely to see shisha on the signage of modern cafes in Madrid or Barcelona.
Examples in context
- ¿Alguien tiene una pipa de agua?Does anyone have a hookah?
- El narguile está en la mesa.The hookah is on the table.
Example conversation
Lucía and Alejandro are at a cafe.
- Lucía¿Quieres probar el narguile, Alejandro?Do you want to try the hookah, Alejandro?
- AlejandroSí, me parece una buena idea.Yes, I think that is a good idea.
- LucíaVoy a pedir un sabor de manzana.I am going to order an apple flavor.
- AlejandroPerfecto, Lucía, gracias por invitarme.Perfect, Lucía, thanks for inviting me.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hookah” translations and entries narguile, shisha, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries narguile, CC BY-SA 4.0.
