Spanish Words That English Doesn’t Have

Spanish has linguistic gems that don’t have a direct translation in English—words that capture emotions, moments, or ideas with unique precision. And I’m talking about actual dictionary words here, not those cheesy slang terms from different countries that even neighboring Spanish-speaking nations don’t always understand. SOBREMESA That magical moment after a meal when the table fills with chats, laughter, and stories. In English, there’s no word for that unique connection around empty plates. ESTRENAR The thrill of using something for the very first time, whether it’s new clothes or a shiny car. In English, “to use for the first time” just doesn’t do justice to that special little tingle. EMPALAGAR That feeling when something is so sweet—whether a dessert or an overly affectionate person—that it overwhelms you. The English word “cloying” comes close, but it doesn’t capture the visceral punch. MERENDAR It’s not simply “having a snack.” It’s that afternoon ritual where coffee, bread, or a tasty treat becomes a small break amid the day’s chaos.