pala
“pala” means “shovel” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
shovel
Also: spade, dustpan
📝 In Action
Usé la pala para cavar un hoyo en el jardín.
A1I used the shovel to dig a hole in the garden.
Necesitamos una pala para quitar la nieve de la entrada.
A2We need a shovel to clear the snow from the driveway.
paddle
Also: racket
📝 In Action
Mi pala de pádel es muy ligera.
A2My padel paddle is very light.
¿Me prestas tu pala para jugar?
A1Can I borrow your paddle to play?
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: pala
Question 1 of 1
If you are playing 'Pádel' (a popular Spanish sport), what are you holding?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'pala', which also meant a shovel or a spade. It has maintained its core meaning for centuries.
First recorded: 12th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'pala' used for a dustpan?
Yes, although the specific term is 'recogedor', many people colloquially call it 'pala' or 'pala de basura'.
What is the difference between 'pala' and 'paleta'?
A 'pala' is usually a large tool used with two hands for heavy work. A 'paleta' is a smaller, one-handed version used for gardening or masonry.