protector solar
/pɾoteɡˌtoɾ soˈlaɾ/
Sun block in Spanish is protector solar.
Protector solar refers to a cream or lotion applied to the skin to protect it from the sun's ultraviolet rays. In casual conversation, once the context of sun care is already established, native speakers often shorten the phrase to just el protector.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase protector solar is composed of protector (protector or defender) and solar (relating to the sun).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In many parts of Latin America, bloqueador solar is frequently used instead of protector solar. Additionally, in some regions of Mexico, the term bloqueador contra el sol is used.
How do you pronounce it?
/pɾoteɡˌtoɾ soˈlaɾ/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word solar has two different origins. While it means 'relating to the sun' in protector solar, it can also come from suelo, meaning 'ground' or 'floor'.
- The word protector is used for both a chemical sun block and a physical accessory, such as a screen guard for a smartphone.
- Spanish makes a strict distinction between solar, which describes things relating to the sun's properties, and soleado, which describes the weather on a sunny day.
Examples in context
- Necesito protector solar.I need sun block.This sentence is useful for expressing a need for protector solar.Tatoeba #436880 by lukaszpp, translation #436879 by lukaszpp
- Recuerda aplicar tu protector solar cada dos horas en la playa.Remember to apply your sun block every two hours at the beach.
- No te olvides de llevar tu crema solar para protegerte del sol.Don't forget to bring your sun block to protect yourself from the sun.
- Debes aplicar bloqueador solar en todas las zonas expuestas al sol.You should apply sun block to all sun-exposed areas.
- No te olvides de ponerte el protector antes de ir a la piscina.Don't forget to put on sun block before going to the pool.
- Aplica bloqueador contra el sol para proteger tu piel.Apply sun block to protect your skin.
- El protector solar es muy importante.Sun block is very important.
- No olvides comprar el protector solar.Don't forget to buy the sun block.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are preparing for a trip to the beach.
- JavierLucía, ¿dónde está el protector solar?Lucía, where is the sun block?
- LucíaEstá sobre la mesa, Javier.It is on the table, Javier.
- JavierGracias, no quiero quemarme hoy.Thanks, I don't want to get burned today.
- LucíaEs mejor ponerse protector solar cada dos horas.It is better to put on sun block every two hours.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry protector solar, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries protector, solar, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
