Spanish word

linterna

Pronunciation

IPA/linˈteɾna/

Meaning

  • feminine nounflashlight

Example

¿Tienes una linterna para la noche?

Do you have a flashlight for the night?

Illustration for linterna (flashlight)

More examples

Encendí la linterna para buscar las llaves.

I turned on the flashlight to look for the keys.

Core concept

Handheld torch for use in the dark.

Common phrases

  • linterna de mano

    handheld flashlight

  • encender la linterna

    turn on the flashlight

  • usar la linterna

    use the flashlight

Similar words

lámpara: Room or desk lamp that provides focused or ambient illumination from mains power or batteries.
vela: Simple candle-like light from burning wax or oil, emitting a soft, moving flame.
farol: Protective outdoor lantern with glass and metal housing, designed for carrying or suspension.

Definition in Spanish

Aparato portátil que emite luz y se sujeta con la mano, que suele funcionar con pilas o baterías para iluminar la oscuridad.

Word origin

Linterna derives from Latin lanterna and ultimately from Greek lykhnos meaning 'lamp', and the word in Spanish now names modern portable electric lights.

Usage tips

  • A natural borrowing phrase is ¿Me prestas una linterna? and adding con pilas or sin pilas avoids surprises about batteries.

Other meanings

  • lanternnoun

Word lists with this word