paleta
/paˈleta/
paleta is the Spanish word for a popsicle.
A paleta is an informal term for a frozen treat on a stick, which is typically made from fruit or cream. To specifically distinguish fruit-juice-based popsicles from those made with cream, you may use the phrase paleta de hielo.
Which one should you use?
While paleta refers specifically to a frozen treat on a stick, helado is the general term for ice cream in any form. Additionally, the diminutive form paletita is often used to refer to small popsicles or even lollipops.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, paleta is a commonly used term for a popsicle. In Spain, the term polo is commonly used to refer to a popsicle instead.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈleta/
Did you know?
- Outside the freezer, a paleta can refer to a painter's palette or a shoulder blade in anatomy. The word refers to any flat, oval-shaped object.
- The word paleta is derived from pala, which means 'shovel'. It uses a diminutive suffix to describe a small, shovel-like shape.
- In Mexico, you will find paleterías, which are specialized shops dedicated entirely to selling these frozen treats. These shops often function as social hubs for families and friends.
Examples in context
- ¿Tienes algún sabor favorito de paleta?Do you have a favorite popsicle flavor?
- ¿Te gustaría compartir un polo conmigo?Would you like to share a popsicle with me?
- La artista sostenía la paleta mientras mezclaba los colores en su estudio.The artist held the palette while mixing the colors in her studio.
- Esta paleta de limón es muy refrescante.This lemon popsicle is very refreshing.
- ¿Quieres una paleta de chocolate?Do you want a chocolate popsicle?
- Compré una paleta de fresa en la tienda.I bought a strawberry popsicle at the store.
Example conversation
Mateo and Sofía are walking in a park on a hot day.
- MateoHace mucho calor, Sofía.It is very hot, Sofía.
- SofíaSí, vamos a comprar una paleta.Yes, let's buy a popsicle.
- Mateo¡Buena idea! Yo quiero una de mango.Good idea! I want a mango one.
- SofíaA mí me gusta la de limón.I like the lemon one.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry paleta, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries paleta, CC BY-SA 4.0.
