tapado
“tapado” means “covered” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
covered, clogged
Also: constipated, wrapped up
📝 In Action
El fregadero está tapado y el agua no baja.
A2The sink is clogged and the water won't go down.
No puedo respirar bien porque tengo la nariz tapada.
A2I can't breathe well because I have a stuffy nose.
El cielo está totalmente tapado por las nubes.
B1The sky is completely covered by clouds.
dark horse
Also: overcoat, stew
📝 In Action
Nadie conocía al candidato, era el tapado del partido.
C1Nobody knew the candidate; he was the party's 'dark horse' (hidden choice).
Ella llevaba un elegante tapado de piel.
B2She was wearing an elegant fur wrap.
Cocinamos un tapado de mariscos riquísimo.
B2We cooked a delicious seafood stew.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "tapado" in Spanish:
clogged→constipated→covered→dark horse→overcoat→stew→wrapped up→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: tapado
Question 1 of 3
If your kitchen sink isn't draining, how would you describe it?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the verb 'tapar', which likely comes from a Germanic word 'tappa' meaning a plug or a tap.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'tapado' the same as 'atascado'?
Mostly, yes! 'Atascado' is very common in Spain for 'stuck' or 'clogged,' while 'tapado' is more frequent in Latin America for pipes and noses.
Can I use 'tapado' to mean someone is stupid?
In some countries like Chile or Peru, 'tapado' or 'tapado de la cabeza' can informally suggest someone is a bit slow or stubborn, though it's not the primary meaning.
How do I say my ears are blocked?
You use 'oídos tapados'. For example: 'Tengo los oídos tapados por el avión' (My ears are blocked because of the plane).