motel
“motel” means “motel” in Spanish (roadside accommodation for travelers).
motel
Also: inn, short-stay hotel
📝 In Action
Necesitamos parar en el primer motel que veamos, estoy muy cansado.
A2We need to stop at the first motel we see, I am very tired.
El motel tenía estacionamiento privado y era muy discreto.
B1The motel had private parking and was very discreet.
En muchos países, la palabra 'motel' no significa lo mismo que 'hotel'.
B2In many countries, the word 'motel' does not mean the same thing as 'hotel'.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: motel
Question 1 of 1
If you are in Mexico City and need a standard place to sleep for a week, which word should you use to avoid confusion?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word is a direct borrowing (called an Anglicism) from English. It was created in the United States by blending two words: 'motor' (related to cars and travel) and 'hotel,' specifically to describe roadside lodging for drivers.
First recorded: Mid-20th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'motel' always masculine?
Yes, 'motel' is a masculine noun. You always use 'el' or 'un' before it, as in 'El motel es nuevo' (The motel is new).
What is the main difference between 'motel' and 'hotel' in Spanish?
While both offer lodging, 'hotel' is the general term for standard, overnight accommodation. 'Motel,' especially in Latin America, usually refers to a specific type of establishment rented for short, private stays (often by the hour) and is usually not used for family travel.