encendedor
/enθendeˈdoɾ/
The English word "igniter" is translated into Spanish as encendedor.
An encendedor is a device used to ignite something. In formal contexts, you may use the term Dispositivo de encendido to mean "ignition device," or Generador de chispa to specifically refer to spark igniters.
Meaning: device that is used to ignite something (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word encendedor is derived from the verb encender, meaning "to light" or "to turn on", combined with the suffix -dor, which denotes an agent or tool that performs an action.
Which one should you use?
While encendedor refers to the device itself, the word encendido refers to the state of being lit or turned on.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form is created by adding -es to the end of the word to get encendedores.
How do you pronounce it?
/enθendeˈdoɾ/
Did you know?
- In some Latin American slang, encender can mean to provoke someone or to start an argument.
- In certain Latin American dialects, a small portable lighter might be called a briquet, a loanword from French used in specific social circles.
- While encendedor is the precise noun for the tool, you might hear someone ask for fuego (fire) when they actually just want to use your lighter.
Examples in context
- Necesito un encendedor para encender esta vela.I need a lighter to ignite this candle.
- El dispositivo de encendido no está funcionando correctamente en el automóvil.The ignition device is not functioning properly in the car.
- Necesito un encendedor para la barbacoa.I need a lighter for the barbecue.
- El encendedor no tiene gas.The lighter has no gas.
- ¿Tienes un encendedor que me prestes?Do you have a lighter you can lend me?
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are at a campsite preparing for a fire.
- AlejandroElena, ¿viste mi encendedor?Elena, did you see my lighter?
- ElenaCreo que está en la mesa, Alejandro.I think it is on the table, Alejandro.
- AlejandroNo lo encuentro por ninguna parte.I can't find it anywhere.
- ElenaUsa este encendedor mío para empezar.Use this lighter of mine to start.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry encendedor, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
