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How to Say "beep" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pitido

pee-TEE-dohpiˈtiðo

nounA2electronic device sound
Use 'pitido' for the electronic sound emitted by devices like microwaves, timers, or computers.
A small digital microwave on a kitchen counter with sound waves coming from its display.

Examples

El microondas hizo un pitido cuando la comida estuvo lista.

The microwave made a beep when the food was ready.

El árbitro dio el pitido final y el partido terminó.

The referee blew the final whistle and the game ended.

Escuché un pitido agudo viniendo de mi ordenador.

I heard a high-pitched beep coming from my computer.

Always Masculine

Even though it ends in 'o', just remember it's a 'thing' (a noun) and always uses masculine articles like 'el' or 'un'.

Noun vs. Verb

Use 'pitido' for the sound itself (the noun). If you want to say 'to beep' or 'to whistle,' use the verb 'pitar'.

Confusing with 'Pito'

Mistake: “Escuché un pito en el móvil.”

Correction: Escuché un pitido en el móvil. 'Pito' usually refers to the physical whistle instrument or a car horn, while 'pitido' is the actual sound you hear.

pito

pee-tohˈpito

nounA2a short, high sound made by a machine
Use 'pito' for a short, high-pitched sound, most commonly associated with a whistle, like one blown by a referee or a coach.
A shiny silver metal whistle resting on a solid blue background.

Examples

El árbitro tocó el pito al final del partido.

The referee blew the whistle at the end of the game.

Escuché un pito en el oído después del concierto.

I heard a ringing sound in my ear after the concert.

Masculine Noun

This word is masculine, so always use 'el' or 'un' with it (el pito).

Pitido vs. Pito

Learners often confuse 'pitido' and 'pito' because they sound similar and both can describe a 'beep'. Remember that 'pitido' is for electronic device sounds, while 'pito' is primarily for whistles.

Related Translations

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