matiné
/matiˈne/
The Spanish word for matinee is matiné.
A matiné refers to a showing of a movie or a theatrical performance that takes place during the morning or afternoon.
Meaning: a showing of a movie or theatrical performance in the morning or afternoon (noun)
Which one should you use?
While matiné is used, función de tarde is a common alternative used to describe an afternoon screening or performance.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, it is common to use sesión de tarde to refer to an afternoon movie session.
How do you pronounce it?
/matiˈne/
Did you know?
- In several Latin American countries, a matiné is not a theater show but a dance party for teenagers that takes place in the afternoon.
- If you are in Mexico or parts of Central America, you might hear the term matiné used to describe an afternoon Lucha Libre wrestling match.
- The word matiné originates from the French word 'matin', meaning 'morning', though in Spanish it is frequently used for afternoon shows as well.
Examples in context
- ¿Vamos a ver la película de la función de la tarde?Are we going to watch the movie from the matinee?
Example conversation
Mateo and María are planning their cinema trip.
- MateoMaría, ¿vamos a la matiné hoy?María, shall we go to the matinee today?
- MaríaSí, es mejor ir temprano.Yes, it is better to go early.
- MateoCompro los boletos para la matiné ahora.I will buy the matinee tickets now.
- MaríaPerfecto, Mateo. Nos vemos pronto.Perfect, Mateo. See you soon.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry matiné, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries matiné, CC BY-SA 4.0.
