A figure wearing a wide-brimmed hat is peacefully asleep, resting on a blanket spread beneath a small shade tree.

siesta

see-ESS-tah

nounfA1

nap?short sleep,afternoon nap?specific time of day

Also:rest period?general break

📝 In Action

Después del almuerzo, necesito una siesta corta.

After lunch, I need a short nap.

En verano, la siesta es obligatoria para recuperar energía.

In summer, the nap is mandatory to recover energy.

Mi abuelo siempre echa la siesta en el sofá.

My grandfather always takes a nap on the sofa.

Word Connections

Synonyms

descanso (rest)
cabezada (doze, snooze)

Antonyms

vigilia (wakefulness)

Common Collocations

echar la siesta – to take a nap (most common phrase)
dormir la siesta – to sleep the nap
la hora de la siesta – nap time

💡 Grammar Points

Using the Verb 'Echar'

The most natural way to say 'to take a nap' in Spanish is using the verb 'echar' (to throw/cast) plus 'una siesta' or 'la siesta': 'Echar una siesta'.

❌ Common Pitfalls

Taking vs. Sleeping

Mistake: "Using 'tomar una siesta' (which is understandable but less common)."

Correction: Use 'echar una siesta' or 'dormir la siesta'. 'Echar' is often preferred for short, quick actions like taking a nap or a look.

⭐ Usage Tips

Cultural Context

The siesta traditionally happens between 2 PM and 4 PM, often after the main meal of the day, especially in Spain and Latin America where temperatures are high.

✏️ Quick Practice

💡 Quick Quiz: siesta

Question 1 of 1

Which verb is most commonly used in Spanish to mean 'to take a nap'?

📚 More Resources

Word Family

sestear(to nap (specifically in the afternoon)) - verb

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the siesta still common in Spain?

While the traditional, long, mid-day break that closes down businesses is less common in major cities due to modern work schedules, the concept of a short nap or rest period ('echar una cabezada') after lunch is still very much a part of the culture, especially in rural areas or during the hot summer months.