bálsamo labial
/ˌbalsamo laˈbjal/masculine
The English phrase 'lip balm' is translated into Spanish as bálsamo labial.
This refers to a substance applied topically to the lips.
Meaning: substance topically applied to the lips of the mouth (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of bálsamo (balm) and labial (relating to the lips).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, bálsamo labial is commonplace, while in Mexico, protector labial is commonly used to refer to lip balm.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express the plural 'lip balms', use bálsamos labiales, where both the noun and the adjective are pluralized.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌbalsamo laˈbjal/
Did you know?
- While bálsamo labial is the standard term, many Spanish speakers simply use labial as a shorthand, though this can be confusing since labial is also the common word for 'lipstick'.
- In some Latin American countries, you might hear the term manteca de cacao used for lip balm, which literally translates to 'cocoa butter'.
- In Spanish, the word bálsamo is used both for lip products and in a metaphorical sense to describe something that provides spiritual or emotional comfort.
Examples in context
- ¿Tienes cacao labial?Do you have lip balm?
- Necesito un bálsamo labial para el frío.I need a lip balm for the cold.
- ¿Tienes un bálsamo labial en tu bolso?Do you have a lip balm in your purse?
- Este bálsamo labial huele a fresa.This lip balm smells like strawberry.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are walking outside on a windy day.
- LucíaTengo los labios muy secos.My lips are very dry.
- MateoUsa mi bálsamo labial, Lucía.Use my lip balm, Lucía.
- LucíaMuchas gracias, Mateo.Thank you so much, Mateo.
- MateoDe nada, espero que te sirva.You're welcome, I hope it helps you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “lip balm” translations and entries bálsamo labial, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
