gafete
/ɡaˈfete/
In Spanish, the English phrase 'name tag' is translated as gafete.
A name tag refers to a badge worn on clothing that displays a person's name. You can also use the descriptive phrase etiqueta con nombre to describe a label that bears a name.
Which one should you use?
While gafete is a common way to refer to the object, etiqueta con nombre is a more literal description meaning 'label with name'. In highly formal contexts, you may encounter the terms Etiqueta de Identificación or Placa Identificatoria.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, gafete is the term typically used for a name tag. In Spain, it is more common to use identificador or tarjeta de identificación.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of gafete is gafetes.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɡaˈfete/
Did you know?
- The word gafete is built from gafa, which means 'glasses' or 'spectacles'. The suffix -ete is used here to create a smaller or related version of the object.
- In many Latin American workplaces, a gafete is not just a name tag but often doubles as a security pass or an access card for electronic doors.
- The term placa is often used for name tags in security or police contexts, implying a metal-like, more permanent badge rather than a plastic one.
Examples in context
- En la conferencia, asegúrate de llevar puesta tu etiqueta de identificación.At the conference, make sure to wear your name tag.
- Los empleados deben llevar puesta la placa identificatoria durante el horario laboral.Employees must wear their name tags during working hours.
- No se permitirá la entrada sin la insignia del evento.Entry will not be allowed without the name tag of the event.
- Recuerda recoger tu gafete en la mesa de registro.Remember to pick up your name tag at the registration desk.
- Olvidé mi gafete en la oficina.I forgot my name tag at the office.
- ¿Dónde puedo conseguir un gafete?Where can I get a name tag?
- Tu gafete está al revés.Your name tag is upside down.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are at a professional networking event.
- DanielHola, no puedo leer tu gafete.Hello, I cannot read your name tag.
- ElenaLo siento, Daniel, lo pondré mejor.I am sorry, Daniel, I will put it on better.
- DanielNo te preocupes, Elena.Do not worry, Elena.
- ElenaGracias, ahora se ve bien.Thanks, now it looks good.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry gafete, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gafete, CC BY-SA 4.0.
