resaca
/reh-SAH-kah/
hangover
A person experiencing a hangover, feeling unwell after drinking too much.
resaca(noun)
hangover
?the unpleasant feeling after drinking too much alcohol
after-effects
?the lingering results of a major event
π In Action
Tengo una resaca terrible porque anoche bebΓ mucho vino.
A2I have a terrible hangover because I drank a lot of wine last night.
Beber agua ayuda a evitar la resaca.
A2Drinking water helps to avoid a hangover.
π‘ Grammar Points
Using 'Tener' with Resaca
Just like 'hunger' or 'thirst,' Spanish speakers 'have' a hangover (tener resaca) rather than 'being' hungover.
β Common Pitfalls
Gender Error
Mistake: "el resaca"
Correction: la resaca (it is a feminine noun ending in -a).
β Usage Tips
International vs. Local
While 'resaca' is understood by all Spanish speakers, be aware that many countries have their own favorite slang word for this feeling!
The undertow of the ocean pulling water back from the shore into the sea.
resaca(noun)
undertow
?the water that pulls back into the sea after a wave hits the shore
backwash
?the motion of receding waves
π In Action
La resaca del mar era tan fuerte que era peligroso nadar.
B2The sea's undertow was so strong that it was dangerous to swim.
π‘ Grammar Points
The literal meaning
This is the original meaning of the word. It describes the water 'drawing back' (sacar) 'again' (re-).
βοΈ Quick Practice
π‘ Quick Quiz: resaca
Question 1 of 2
If you go to a party in Spain and drink too much, what will you likely have the next morning?
π More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'resaca' slang?
No, it is the standard, neutral word for a hangover in Spanish. However, many countries have their own slang versions like 'cruda' or 'guayabo'.
Can I use 'resaca' for things other than alcohol?
Yes! You can use 'resaca emocional' to describe the tired feeling you have after a very stressful or emotional day.