algodón
/ahl-go-DON/
cotton
Algodón, meaning 'cotton,' often refers to the natural fiber used to create textiles.
algodón(Noun)
cotton
?fiber or fabric
cotton plant
?the crop itself (less common than the material)
📝 In Action
Esta camiseta es muy cómoda porque es de algodón.
A1This t-shirt is very comfortable because it is made of cotton.
El algodón es una de las fibras naturales más suaves.
A2Cotton is one of the softest natural fibers.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender is Key
Remember that 'algodón' is a masculine noun, so you must always use the masculine articles and adjectives, like el algodón (the cotton) or algodón blanco (white cotton).
⭐ Usage Tips
Describing Clothes
To say something is made of cotton, use the preposition de: 'La toalla es de algodón' (The towel is of cotton).
Algodón can also mean 'cotton wool,' the unprocessed wad used for cleaning or medical purposes.
algodón(Noun)
cotton wool
?unprocessed wad for cleaning
,cotton ball
?a small, rolled piece
candy floss
?in the phrase 'algodón de azúcar'
📝 In Action
Usé un poco de algodón y alcohol para desinfectar el corte.
A2I used a little cotton wool and alcohol to disinfect the cut.
Los niños pidieron algodón de azúcar en la feria.
A2The children asked for cotton candy at the fair.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Specific Medical Items
Mistake: "Using 'algodón' when you really mean a cotton swab (like a Q-tip)."
Correction: For a cotton swab, use *hisopo* or *bastoncillo*. 'Algodón' usually refers to a loose wad or ball.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: algodón
Question 1 of 1
Which phrase correctly uses 'algodón' to describe a sweet treat?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'algodón' start with 'al-'?
'Al-' is a remnant of the Arabic definite article, meaning 'the.' When Spanish speakers borrowed the word from Arabic, they kept 'al-' as part of the word itself, a common pattern in Spanish vocabulary.