máquina expendedora
/ˌmakina eɡspendeˈdoɾa/feminine
The English phrase "vending machine" is translated into Spanish as máquina expendedora. If unsure, use máquina expendedora. Wiktionary also lists distribuidor automático and máquina.
Meaning: machine that dispenses merchandise (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| máquina expendedora | /ˌmakina eɡspendeˈdoɾa/ /ˌmakina espendeˈdoɾa/ (informal) |
feminine |
| distribuidor automático | /distɾibwidoɾ automatiko/ (from spelling rules) | feminine, masculine |
| máquina | /ˈmakina/ | feminine |
| vending | /bendinɡ/ (from spelling rules) | masculine |
| máquina dispensadora | /makina dispensadoɾa/ (from spelling rules) | feminine |
| máquina vendedora | /makina bendedoɾa/ (from spelling rules) | feminine |
The term refers to a machine that dispenses merchandise. You can use different terms depending on what the machine sells, such as máquina de refrescos if you are specifically looking for a soda machine.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase máquina expendedora is composed of máquina (machine) and expendedora (dispensing/expending).
Which one should you use?
Máquina expendedora is the most standard and widely understood term across the Spanish-speaking world. Other forms include distribuidor automático, máquina, vending, máquina dispensadora and máquina vendedora.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, the expression máquina de vending is commonly used. Also in Spain, if the machine specifically sells candy or sweets, you can use máquina de chuches.
How does it change in a sentence?
Because máquina is a feminine noun, the adjective expendedora must also be in the feminine form.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌmakina eɡspendeˈdoɾa/
Did you know?
- The word máquina shares a root with the English word 'machine' and originally comes from the Ancient Greek word makhaná, which could mean a 'stratagem' or a 'trick'.
- If you see a sign for a 'distribuidor automático', it is often used in more formal contexts, like in professional logistics or large-scale automated systems, rather than just a snack machine.
Examples in context
- Hay una máquina expendedora al final del pasillo.There's a vending machine at the end of the hall.This sentence uses máquina expendedora to describe the location of a machine.Tatoeba #10093208 by manufrutos, translation #10093051 by ddnktr
- La máquina expendedora está haciendo unos ruidos extraños.The vending machine is making strange noises.This sentence uses máquina expendedora to describe a machine making noise.Tatoeba #547234 by Shishir, translation #522529 by CM
- ¿Dónde puedo encontrar una máquina expendedora en el barrio?Where can I find a vending machine in the neighborhood?This sentence uses máquina expendedora to ask about finding a machine in a neighborhood.Tatoeba #8698997 by escudo119, translation #6794054 by Eccles17
- Por favor, ¿dónde puedo encontrar una máquina expendedora de snacks?Excuse me, where can I find a snack vending machine?
- ¿Sabe dónde puedo encontrar una expendedora automática de bebidas?Do you know where I can find a beverage vending machine?
- ¿Dónde hay una máquina de vending de café?Where is there a coffee vending machine?
- Perdón, ¿sabe si hay alguna dispensadora automática de bocadillos cerca?Excuse me, do you know if there is any snack vending machine nearby?
- ¿Dónde está la máquina de snacks?Where is the snack vending machine?
- Oye, ¿sabes dónde hay una máquina de chuches cerca?Hey, do you know where there's a candy vending machine nearby?
- Disculpa, ¿hay alguna máquina expendedora de refrescos por aquí?Excuse me, is there a soda vending machine around here?
- ¿Puedes indicarme dónde se encuentra una expendedora automática?Can you tell me where I can find a vending machine?
- ¿Dónde está la máquina de chuches más cercana?Where is the nearest candy vending machine?
- ¡Gracias! Ya he encontrado la máquina de snacksThank you! I've found the snack vending machine.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and Sofía are at a train station.
- JavierTengo mucha sed, ¿hay alguna máquina expendedora aquí?I'm very thirsty, is there a vending machine here?
- SofíaSí, Javier, hay una justo detrás de ti.Yes, Javier, there is one right behind you.
- JavierNo veo que la máquina expendedora acepte monedas.I don't see that the vending machine accepts coins.
- SofíaUsa tu tarjeta, Sofía cree que es más fácil.Use your card, Sofía thinks it's easier.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “vending machine” translations and entries máquina expendedora, máquina, 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.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries automático, distribuidor, máquina, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
