magdalena
/maɡdaˈlena/feminine
The Spanish word for the small shell-shaped sponge cake known as a madeleine is magdalena.
This term refers to a small, shell-shaped sponge cake.
Meaning: small gateau in the shape of a scallop shell (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
magdalena is a feminine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/maɡdaˈlena/
Did you know?
- In some Latin American countries, magdalenas are not always sweet and can be savory versions of the cake served as a side dish.
- The word magdalena is used in the name of the Río Magdalena, the second longest river in Colombia, which shares the name with the cake.
- While the French version is defined by its shell shape, a Spanish magdalena is frequently baked in a cylindrical paper cup and looks more like a muffin.
Examples in context
- ¡Mucho gusto! Mi nombre es Magdalena. ¿Y usted?Nice to meet you! My name is Madeleine. And you?
- La magdalena es muy esponjosa.The madeleine is very fluffy.
- Compré una magdalena de limón.I bought a lemon madeleine.
- ¿Quieres una magdalena con el té?Do you want a madeleine with your tea?
Example conversation
Elena is offering a snack to Mateo in the living room.
- MateoElena, ¿tienes algo para comer?Elena, do you have something to eat?
- ElenaSí, tengo una magdalena para ti, Mateo.Yes, I have a madeleine for you, Mateo.
- MateoMuchas gracias, se ve deliciosa.Thank you very much, it looks delicious.
- ElenaDe nada, disfruta tu merienda.You're welcome, enjoy your snack.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “madeleine” translations and entries magdalena, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
