panecillos
/paneθiʝos/from spelling rules
The English phrase "rolls" (referring to small, round loaves of bread) is translated into Spanish as panecillos.
While panecillos is a standard way to refer to these, speakers often use the word bollos to mean rolls or buns in many different Spanish-speaking contexts.
What does it mean word for word?
The word panecillos is a diminutive of pan (bread), so it literally translates to "little breads".
Which one should you use?
While panecillos is a standard term, bollos is a common alternative used to describe rolls or buns in many regions. Additionally, the diminutive panecito can be used affectionately to refer to small rolls.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form of the word is panecillo (roll), and the plural form is panecillos (rolls).
How do you pronounce it?
/paneθiʝos/
Did you know?
- The word bollo is used in some Spanish-speaking countries as slang to refer to a person's buttocks.
- The English word 'pantry' is a distant relative of pan, originating from the French 'paneterie' meaning a place for bread.
- In Latin America, using the diminutive panecito instead of panecillo is often a social gesture to make a meal feel more welcoming and homey.
Examples in context
- ¿Tienen panecillos para acompañar la sopa?Do you have rolls to accompany the soup?
- Sí, señor. Aquí le traigo unos panecillos calientitos.Yes, sir. Here are some warm rolls for you.
- ¡Estos bolillos son perfectos para las tortas que vamos a hacer!These rolls are perfect for the sandwiches we're going to make!
- Compré unos panecillos para la cena.I bought some rolls for dinner.
- Los panecillos están recién horneados.The rolls are freshly baked.
- ¿Quieres un poco de estos panecillos?Do you want some of these rolls?
Example conversation
Javier and María are preparing lunch in the kitchen.
- JavierMaría, ¿dónde están los panecillos?María, where are the rolls?
- MaríaEstán en la bolsa sobre la mesa.They are in the bag on the table.
- JavierGracias, voy a calentar los panecillos ahora.Thanks, I am going to heat the rolls now.
- MaríaPerfecto, yo preparo el resto.Perfect, I will prepare the rest.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
