Papá Noel
/paˌpa noˈel/
The Spanish phrase for Santa Claus is Papá Noel.
This phrase refers to the legendary figure who brings gifts to children on Christmas Eve.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Papá Noel is the most widely recognized term across the Spanish-speaking world, being common in Spain and much of Latin America. In Chile, the term Viejito Pascuero is used primarily to refer to him.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˌpa noˈel/
Did you know?
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, the primary gift-giver is actually the Reyes Magos or Three Wise Men, who arrive on January 6.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, children traditionally leave out shoes or boots for Papá Noel rather than hanging stockings on a fireplace.
- The term Viejito Pascuero used in Chile translates literally to 'Little Old Man of Easter', though it refers to Christmas.
Examples in context
- Cree en Papá Noel.He believes in Santa Claus.This sentence shows how to express belief in Papá Noel.Tatoeba #2161800 by Shishir, translation #290054 by CK
- ¿Crees en Papá Noel?Do you believe in Santa Claus?This sentence is useful for asking someone if they believe in Papá Noel.Tatoeba #9176547 by ignacio, translation #6042710 by mailohilohi
- Mi hijo cree en Papá Noel.My son believes in Santa Claus.This sentence demonstrates how to say a son believes in Papá Noel.Tatoeba #779873 by Shishir, translation #1344019 by Chrikaru
- Señor, ¿le ha escrito una carta a Papá Noel este año?Sir, have you written a letter to Santa Claus this year?
- 13 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are decorating the Christmas tree.
- DanielTengo que escribir una carta a Papá Noel.I have to write a letter to Santa.
- Elena¿Qué le vas a pedir este año?What are you going to ask him for this year?
- DanielQuiero un libro nuevo y unos colores.I want a new book and some crayons.
- ElenaSeguro que Papá Noel te traerá todo.I'm sure Santa will bring you everything.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry Papá Noel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
