onda
“onda” means “wave” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
wave
Also: ripple, billow
📝 In Action
El barco creó una onda en el agua al pasar.
A2The boat created a wave in the water as it passed.
Las ondas sonoras viajan más rápido en el agua que en el aire.
B1Sound waves travel faster in water than in air.
vibe, mood
Also: coolness, What's up?
📝 In Action
El café tiene una onda muy relajada y acogedora.
B1The coffee shop has a very relaxed and cozy vibe.
¡Qué buena onda eres! Siempre me ayudas.
B2You're so cool/kind! You always help me.
¡Hola, amigo! ¿Qué onda?
A2Hey, friend! What's up?
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: onda
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'onda' in its physical, non-slang meaning?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *unda*, meaning 'wave' or 'flow.' This root word is also the source of the English words 'undulate' and 'inundate.' The shift from a physical wave to a figurative 'vibe' is a modern, natural evolution of language.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish (as 'onda' referring to physical waves)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is '¿Qué onda?' acceptable in all Spanish-speaking countries?
While understood everywhere, '¿Qué onda?' is most characteristic of Mexico and Central America. In Spain, you are more likely to hear '¿Qué tal?' or '¿Qué pasa?'
Can I use 'onda' to talk about a specific ocean wave?
Yes, but it's more common to use 'ola' (wave) when talking specifically about surfing or large, crashing ocean waves. 'Onda' is better for general waves or figurative uses.