mapache
/maˈpat͡ʃe/
The English phrase "trash panda" is translated into Spanish as mapache.
mapache is the formal translation for the English word raccoon.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of mapache is /maˈpatʃe/.
Did you know?
- Because the raccoon is native to North America, the Spanish word mapache is a loanword that traveled from the Americas back to Europe.
- The word mapache traces its roots back to the Classical Nahuatl word māpachin, which carries the connotation of a 'thief'.
- In some Latin American regions, mapache is used metaphorically to describe a person who is cunning or likes to steal small things.
Example conversation
Maria and Javier are looking out the kitchen window.
- MaríaJavier, mira ese mapache.Javier, look at that trash panda.
- JavierEstá tratando de abrir la bolsa.It is trying to open the bag.
- MaríaParece que tiene mucha hambre.It looks like it is very hungry.
- JavierVoy a asustar al mapache.I am going to scare the trash panda.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mapache, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mapache, CC BY-SA 4.0.
