pasabocas
Colombia, everyday
In Colombia a snack is pasabocas, and mecato is the casual word for snacks and sweets. Merienda is the standard Spanish word.
Meaning: small bite between meals (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| pasabocas | Colombia, everyday |
| mecato | Colombia, informal |
| merienda | standard |
Pasabocas are small savory bites served with drinks, such as chips or nuts, and the word is the same in the plural and singular. Mecato refers to snacks and treats you buy and eat on the go. Hacer mecato means to buy snacks.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The word mecato is heard in Colombia in all regions and is common in families and schools.
Did you know?
- Pasabocas is a compound of pasar and bocas.
Examples in context
- Compré mecato para el viaje.I bought snacks for the trip.
- Sirvieron pasabocas en la fiesta.They served snacks at the party.
- Los niños comen una merienda.The kids have a snack.
Example conversation
A family prepares for a road trip from Bogotá.
- Mamá¿Ya compraste el mecato?Did you already buy the snacks?
- PapáSí, papas, galletas y jugos.Yes, chips, cookies and juices.
- MamáPerfecto, ya podemos salir.Perfect, we can leave now.
