chicle
“chicle” means “chewing gum” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
chewing gum
Also: gum
📝 In Action
No puedes masticar chicle en clase.
A1You can't chew gum in class.
Compré un paquete de chicles de menta.
A2I bought a pack of mint gum.
Se me pegó un chicle en el zapato.
A2A piece of gum got stuck to my shoe.
clingy person
Also: glue
📝 In Action
Mi hermano pequeño es un chicle, me sigue a todas partes.
B2My little brother is so clingy, he follows me everywhere.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: chicle
Question 1 of 1
If your friend follows you everywhere and never leaves your side, you might call them:
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Nahuatl (Aztec) word 'tzictli,' which was a natural, sticky sap from the sapodilla tree that people chewed for hygiene and enjoyment.
First recorded: Pre-Columbian (adopted into Spanish in the 16th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'chicle' masculine or feminine?
It is masculine: 'el chicle'. Even when used to describe a person, you usually say 'es un chicle'.
How do I say 'a piece of gum'?
Simply say 'un chicle'. You don't need to add a word for 'piece'.