eje
/ˈexe/masculine
In Spanish, "shaft" can be translated in several ways depending on the context, with eje being the default form. Wiktionary also lists vara and barra.
Meaning: any long, thin object (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| eje | /ˈexe/ | masculine |
| vara | /ˈbaɾa/ | feminine |
| barra | /ˈbara/ | feminine |
| palier | /paˈljeɾ/ /paˈlje/ |
masculine |
| caña | /ˈkaɲa/ | feminine |
The term for "shaft" in Spanish varies significantly based on whether you are describing a mechanical component, a physical object or a specific material.
Which one should you use?
The choice of word depends on the specific nature of the shaft: – Use eje for a mechanical axle or shaft that transmits motion or rotation. – Use barra for a solid, often heavy, cylindrical shaft, such as a metal bar. – Use vara for a thin, light or flexible shaft, such as a wooden stick. – Use caña for a shaft that is thin, hollow or organic, such as a reed or a fishing rod.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈexe/
Did you know?
- In some contexts, vara refers to an ancient unit of measurement used in Spain, rather than just a physical stick.
- While eje describes a mechanical shaft, it is also the word used for the 'axis' of the earth in Spanish.
- The word vara originates from the Latin word for a 'fork', a concept quite different from a straight shaft.
Examples in context
- El eje de transmisión tiene un desgaste excesivo.The driveshaft has excessive wear.
- El cigüeñal del motor necesita ser reemplazado.The engine's crankshaft needs to be replaced.
- Necesitamos asegurar la varilla del pistón.We need to secure the piston rod.
- El eje de la máquina está roto.The shaft of the machine is broken.
- Necesitamos un eje de acero más largo.We need a longer steel shaft.
- El eje gira a mucha velocidad.The shaft rotates at a high speed.
Example conversation
In a workshop, Mateo is inspecting a damaged mechanical part.
- María¿Qué le pasa al motor, Mateo?What is wrong with the motor, Mateo?
- MateoEl eje central está muy desgastado.The central shaft is very worn out.
- MaríaEntonces, ¿debemos cambiarlo hoy?So, should we change it today?
- MateoSí, es necesario para la reparación.Yes, it is necessary for the repair.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “shaft” translations and entries eje, vara, barra, palier, caña, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries barra, eje, palier, vara, CC BY-SA 4.0.
