papel higiénico
/paˌpel iˈxjeniko/
The English phrase 'toilet tissue' is translated into Spanish as papel higiénico.
This phrase refers to the soft paper used for cleaning oneself after using the toilet.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of papel (paper) and higiénico (hygienic).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, it is common to use the expression papel de váter to refer to toilet paper.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˌpel iˈxjeniko/
Did you know?
- In some Latin American regions, people use the phrase papel tualé, which is a phonetic adaptation of the French term papier toilette.
- In Spain, the phrase papel de váter uses a word derived from the English term 'water closet', which was shortened to 'WC'.
- The word papel entered Old Spanish through Old Catalan, rather than coming directly from Latin.
Examples in context
- ¿Dónde puedo encontrar papel sanitario en este lugar?Where can I find toilet tissue in this place?
- No queda mucho papel de baño, ¿podrías comprar más?There's not much toilet tissue left, could you buy more?
- ¿Dónde está el papel higiénico?Where is the toilet tissue?
- Necesito comprar papel higiénico.I need to buy toilet tissue.
- El papel higiénico está en el armario.The toilet tissue is in the cupboard.
- No queda mucho papel higiénico.There isn't much toilet tissue left.
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are at the supermarket.
- Javier¿Puedes traer papel higiénico, Lucía?Can you bring some toilet tissue, Lucía?
- LucíaSí, lo pongo en el carrito.Yes, I'll put it in the cart.
- JavierGracias, también necesitamos jabón.Thanks, we also need soap.
- LucíaEstá bien, lo buscaré ahora.Okay, I'll look for it now.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry papel higiénico, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries higiénico, papel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
