mapache
neutral, Mexico
In Mexican Spanish "raccoon" is mapache. The word comes from the Nahuatl language.
Mapache is masculine, so you say el mapache and un mapache. The plural is mapaches.
Meaning: North American mammal (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
Say ma-PA-che, with the ch like in "church" and the stress on pa.
When do people say it?
Raccoons live across Mexico and are known for washing their food with their front paws. Many people know them from cartoons and nature programs.
Did you know?
- The Spanish word mapache comes from the Nahuatl word mapachtli.
Examples in context
- Un mapache entró a la cocina.A raccoon came into the kitchen.
- El mapache lava su comida.The raccoon washes its food.
- Vimos mapaches en el bosque.We saw raccoons in the forest.
Example conversation
Beto and his dad Armando camp in a forest near Valle de Bravo.
- BetoPapá, algo se movió afuera.Dad, something moved outside.
- ArmandoEs un mapache, no te asustes.It is a raccoon, do not be scared.
- BetoQuiero verlo de cerca.I want to see it up close.
