Inklingo
← Dictionary

cosquillas

koh-SKEE-yahs/kosˈkiʝas/

“cosquillas” means “tickles” in Spanish (the physical sensation).

tickles, tickling

Also: tingling
NounfA2
A cheerful illustration of a person laughing while their feet are being tickled by a large, soft feather.

📝 In Action

¡Para! No me hagas cosquillas.

A1

Stop! Don't tickle me.

Tengo muchas cosquillas en los pies.

A2

My feet are very ticklish.

Sentí unas cosquillas en el estómago antes del examen.

B1

I felt some butterflies (tingling) in my stomach before the exam.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • cosquilleo (tingle)

Common Collocations

  • hacer cosquillas – to tickle (someone)
  • tener cosquillas – to be ticklish
  • morir de cosquillas – to be extremely ticklish

Idioms & Expressions

  • buscarle las cosquillas a alguien – to try to provoke someone or find their weak spot

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "cosquillas" in Spanish:

tickles→tickling→tingling→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: cosquillas

Question 1 of 2

How do you say 'He is ticklish' in Spanish?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
cosquilloso(ticklish) — Adjective
cosquillear(to tingle) — Verb
cosquilleo(tingling sensation) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

Likely from an old sound-imitative word or related to the word for a shell or husk, describing a light, scratchy touch.

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: cócegas

💡 Master Spanish

Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'cosquilla' ever used in the singular?

Rarely. While it exists, it refers to a single tickling touch. In 99% of conversations, you will hear and use the plural 'cosquillas'.

Can 'cosquillas' be used for emotions?

Yes! Just like 'butterflies in the stomach' in English, 'cosquillas en el estómago' describes that nervous, tingly feeling of excitement or anxiety.