número pin
/numeɾo pin/from spelling rulesmasculine
The English phrase 'pin number' is translated into Spanish as número pin.
número pin is used specifically for the personal identification number used for bank cards or mobile phones. You may also encounter related terms like Código (code), Clave secreta (secret code) or Clave numérica (numeric code). While Contraseña means 'password', it is a distinct concept from a PIN.
Meaning: PIN (noun)
Which one should you use?
In many Spanish-speaking contexts, speakers often drop the word número and simply use el PIN to refer to the code itself.
How does it change in a sentence?
número pin is a masculine noun.
How do you pronounce it?
/numeɾo pin/
Did you know?
- Spanish speakers use the word contraseña for passwords, which is derived from the word for a 'counter-sign' used by sentries to identify allies.
- In certain regions, you may hear the term consigna used to refer to a code or a set of instructions. While not a direct translation for a PIN, it describes the concept of a required secret or password.
- The word número comes from the Latin 'numerus', which traces back to a Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to assign' or 'allot'.
Examples in context
- Olvidé mi número pin.I forgot my PIN number.
Example conversation
Sofía is helping Javier use an ATM.
- SofíaJavier, ahora debes poner tu número pin.Javier, now you must enter your PIN number.
- JavierLo siento, no recuerdo el número pin.I'm sorry, I don't remember the PIN number.
- Sofía¿No lo tienes anotado en algún lugar?Don't you have it written down somewhere?
- JavierNo, tengo que llamar al banco.No, I have to call the bank.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pin number” translations and entries número pin, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries número, pin, CC BY-SA 4.0.
