lámpara
/LAHM-pah-rah/
lamp
In its most common usage, lámpara refers to a complete 'lamp' or lighting device.
lámpara(noun)
lamp
?lighting device
,light fixture
?ceiling or wall mounted light
lighting unit
?general term for illumination source
📝 In Action
Compré una lámpara de pie nueva para la sala.
A1I bought a new floor lamp for the living room.
La lámpara del comedor tiene un diseño muy moderno.
A2The dining room light fixture has a very modern design.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender and Articles
Since 'lámpara' is feminine, always use feminine articles with it: 'la lámpara' (the lamp) or 'una lámpara' (a lamp).
⭐ Usage Tips
Types of Lamps
Spanish often specifies the type of lamp: 'lámpara de lectura' (reading lamp), 'lámpara de noche' (bedside lamp).
Lámpara can also be used to refer specifically to the 'light bulb' that emits the light.
📝 In Action
Necesitamos comprar una lámpara de repuesto porque esta se fundió.
B1We need to buy a replacement light bulb because this one burned out.
Asegúrate de que la lámpara sea de bajo consumo.
B2Make sure the bulb is energy-saving.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Fixture vs. Bulb
Mistake: "Using 'lámpara' when you mean the bulb in Spain (where 'bombilla' is standard)."
Correction: In Spain, use 'bombilla' for the small glass part and 'lámpara' for the whole device. In much of Latin America, 'lámpara' can mean either.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: lámpara
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'lámpara' in the sense of 'the entire lighting fixture'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How is 'lámpara' different from 'luz'?
'Luz' means 'light' (the energy or illumination itself, like 'turn off the light'). 'Lámpara' is the physical object—the device or fixture—that produces the light.
Is 'lamparilla' just a small lamp?
Yes, 'lamparilla' is a diminutive form, meaning a 'small lamp' or often specifically a 'nightlight' or a small, low-powered light source.