torta
“torta” means “cake” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
cake, flatbread
Also: omelet, pastry
📝 In Action
Compramos una torta de chocolate para el cumpleaños de mi hermana.
A1We bought a chocolate cake for my sister's birthday.
La torta de manzana que hizo mi abuela es deliciosa.
A2The apple pie (or tart) my grandmother made is delicious.
sandwich
Also: sub
📝 In Action
Voy a pedir una torta de milanesa con aguacate y queso.
A2I'm going to order a breaded meat sandwich with avocado and cheese.
¿Quieres una torta o un taco para el almuerzo?
A1Do you want a torta (sandwich) or a taco for lunch?
slap, punch
Also: smack
📝 In Action
Le dio una torta en la cara por insultarla.
B1He gave her a slap in the face for insulting her.
Si no te callas, te voy a dar una torta.
B2If you don't shut up, I'm going to give you a smack.
car crash
Also: mess
📝 In Action
El conductor se dio una torta contra el muro, pero está bien.
B2The driver hit the wall (had a crash), but he's fine.
La presentación fue una torta; lo olvidé todo.
C1The presentation was a disaster; I forgot everything.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "torta" in Spanish:
cake→car crash→flatbread→mess→omelet→pastry→punch→sandwich→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: torta
Question 1 of 2
If you are in Mexico and your friend says, '¡Vamos por una torta!', what are they most likely suggesting?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Late Latin *torta*, meaning 'twisted bread' or 'round loaf,' derived from the Latin verb *torquere* (to twist). This origin explains why it refers to flat, round foods (like the Mexican sandwich bun or a flat cake).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'torta' the same as 'pastel'?
Not exactly. While both can mean 'cake,' 'pastel' usually refers to a fancy, layered cake or a sweet pastry, especially in Spain and the Southern Cone. 'Torta' often implies a simpler, flatter cake or pie. However, in Mexican Spanish, 'pastel' is the word for birthday cake, while 'torta' is the sandwich.
How can I avoid confusion between the food meanings of 'torta'?
The easiest way is to know your location. If you are in Mexico, assume 'sandwich.' If you are in Spain, assume 'flat cake' or 'omelet.' If you are ordering a dessert, clarify with the flavor ('torta de chocolate').