cola
“cola” means “tail” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
tail
Also: train
📝 In Action
El gato tiene una cola muy larga y esponjosa.
A1The cat has a very long and fluffy tail.
La novia caminó con su impresionante cola de vestido.
A2The bride walked with the impressive train of her dress.
line, queue
Also: traffic jam
📝 In Action
Había una cola enorme para comprar las entradas del concierto.
A1There was a huge line to buy the concert tickets.
No me gusta hacer cola en el supermercado.
A1I don't like waiting in line at the supermarket.
Hay una cola de tres kilómetros en la carretera.
B1There is a three-kilometer traffic jam on the highway.
glue, paste
Also: cement
📝 In Action
Usa esta cola fuerte para fijar la madera rota.
B1Use this strong glue to fix the broken wood.
Compramos un bote grande de cola blanca para el proyecto escolar.
B1We bought a large jar of white glue for the school project.
soda, Coke
📝 In Action
Pide una cola bien fría para la cena.
B2Order a really cold soda for dinner.
¿Quieres una cola o prefieres agua?
B2Do you want a cola or do you prefer water?
Vocabulary Collections
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cola
Question 1 of 2
Which English translation is NOT a common meaning for 'cola'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin word *cauda*, which meant 'tail' or 'train of a garment.' The modern meanings of 'line' and 'glue' developed later, extending the idea of something trailing behind or sticking to an end.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cola' or 'fila' correct when talking about a line of people?
'Cola' is the standard word in Spain and generally understood everywhere. 'Fila' is the preferred and most common word in many parts of Latin America, such as Mexico and Argentina. Both are correct, but use 'fila' to sound more natural in those regions.
How can I tell the difference between 'tail' and 'glue' when I hear 'cola'?
The context usually makes it very clear! If you are talking about a dog or a dress, it means 'tail.' If you are talking about fixing something or school projects, it means 'glue.' Pay attention to the surrounding words, like 'pegar' (to stick) or 'mover' (to move).