tapas
/tapas/from spelling rules
tapas is the Spanish term for small plates.
The word tapas refers to a variety of small, savory appetizers or snacks.
Which one should you use?
While tapas are small snacks, raciones refers to larger, more substantial portions of food intended for sharing among several people.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, the term antojitos is widely used to describe small plates or snacks. In Spain, raciones is commonly used to refer to larger portions of appetizers that can be shared.
How does it change in a sentence?
tapas is the plural form. Use una tapa when referring to a single small plate or portion.
How do you pronounce it?
/tapas/
When do people say it?
The phrase ir de tapas describes the social custom of moving from one bar to another to enjoy different small plates and drinks.
Did you know?
- The word tapas originally referred to 'lids' or 'covers'. Historically, these were small pieces of bread or meat used to cover glasses to protect them from insects or dust in bars.
- In some cities like Granada and Almería, tapas are often served for free as a complimentary accompaniment to a drink.
- While tapas are associated with Spain, the Mexican antojitos translates to 'little cravings' or 'little whims'.
Examples in context
- Me gustaría pedir algunos platos pequeños para compartir con mis amigos.I would like to order some small plates to share with my friends.
- En este restaurante, sirven deliciosas tapas para aquellos que desean probar varios sabores.In this restaurant, they serve delicious tapas for those who want to try different flavors.
- Ayer hicimos una reunión en casa y preparamos bocaditos para picar durante toda la noche.Yesterday, we had a gathering at home and prepared bocaditos to snack on throughout the night.
- En este bar, sirven unas raciones generosas de tortilla española.In this bar, they serve generous portions of Spanish omelette.
- Los antojitos mexicanos, como los tacos y las quesadillas, son una deliciosa opción para compartir.Mexican antojitos, such as tacos and quesadillas, are a delicious option for sharing.
- Pidamos algunas tapas para compartir.Let's order some small plates to share.
- Me encantan las tapas de este bar.I love the small plates at this bar.
- Hay muchas tapas deliciosas en el menú.There are many delicious small plates on the menu.
Example conversation
Javier and Elena are at a Spanish bar deciding what to eat.
- Javier¿Quieres comer algo ligero?Do you want to eat something light?
- ElenaSí, prefiero pedir unas tapas.Yes, I prefer to order some small plates.
- JavierPerfecto, yo también quiero tapas.Perfect, I want small plates too.
- ElenaEntonces, llamaré al camarero.Then, I will call the waiter.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry tapas, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
