ñame
/ˈɲame/masculine
The Spanish word for yam is ñame. Wiktionary also lists yame and ñangate.
Meaning: its edible root (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| ñame | /ˈɲame/ | masculine |
| yame | /ʝame/ (from spelling rules) | El Salvador, masculine |
| ñangate | /ɲanɡate/ (from spelling rules) | Mexico, masculine |
The term refers to the edible root of the plant.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico, ñame is the preferred term for yam. In Mexico, the regional variant ñangate is used. In El Salvador, the form yame is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of ñame is los ñames.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈɲame/
Did you know?
- While ñame refers to the tuber, the Spanish word for the sweet potato is batata or camote, as the two are biologically distinct.
- The word ñame likely entered the Spanish language through Wolof, a language spoken in Senegal, Gambia and Mauritania.
- In rural areas, the process of harvesting ñame often involves community labor called convite or mano vuelta, where neighbors help each other for free.
Examples in context
- Me encantaría probar una deliciosa patata dulce.I would love to try a delicious yam.
- El ñame es muy nutritivo.The yam is very nutritious.
- Compré un ñame en el mercado.I bought a yam at the market.
- Este ñame está muy rico.This yam is very tasty.
Example conversation
In a kitchen, Elena is preparing dinner.
- Elena¿Necesitas ayuda con el ñame, Mateo?Do you need help with the yam, Mateo?
- MateoNo, yo puedo pelar el ñame.No, I can peel the yam.
- ElenaEstá bien, yo prepararé la ensalada.Okay, I will prepare the salad.
- MateoGracias, Elena, eres muy amable.Thanks, Elena, you are very kind.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “yam” translations and entries ñame, 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 ñame, CC BY-SA 4.0.
