impermeable
/impeɾmeˈable/
The Spanish word for rain jacket is impermeable.
The word impermeable is a versatile term that can be used to describe the property of being waterproof or to refer directly to the waterproof garment itself. You can also use the phrase chaqueta impermeable to specifically mean a waterproof jacket.
Which one should you use?
While impermeable refers to the waterproof property, it is the most common way to refer to the garment itself in many Spanish-speaking regions.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word impermeable can function as an adjective meaning 'waterproof' or as a noun meaning 'a rain jacket'. When you use it as a noun to mean 'the rain jacket', it is masculine: el impermeable.
How do you pronounce it?
/impeɾmeˈable/
Did you know?
- In many parts of Latin America, you might hear people call a rain jacket a piloto, a term borrowed from the Portuguese word for 'pilot'.
- While impermeable covers the garment, Spanish uses the word chubasquero in Spain to describe a lightweight, hooded raincoat specifically designed for sudden showers.
- In some Latin American countries, you might hear the word capote used for a rain jacket, which specifically evokes the image of a long, hooded cloak.
Examples in context
- Necesito un impermeable para la excursión.I need a rain jacket for the hike.
- ¿Dónde está mi impermeable azul?Where is my blue rain jacket?
- Este impermeable es muy ligero.This rain jacket is very lightweight.
Example conversation
Daniel and María are preparing to go out during a storm.
- DanielEstá lloviendo mucho, María.It is raining a lot, María.
- MaríaSí, ¿tienes tu impermeable?Yes, do you have your rain jacket?
- DanielNo, voy a buscar mi impermeable ahora.No, I am going to look for my rain jacket now.
- MaríaDate prisa, Daniel.Hurry up, Daniel.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry impermeable, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
