Inklingo

How to Say "socks" in Spanish

English → Spanish

calcetines

/kal-seh-TEE-nes//kalseˈtines/

nounA1general
Use 'calcetines' for everyday socks that cover the foot and ankle, the most common and direct translation.
A vibrant pair of brightly colored, striped socks resting side by side on a neutral background.

Examples

Necesito comprar calcetines nuevos porque estos están rotos.

I need to buy new socks because these ones are torn.

Perdí uno de mis calcetines en la lavadora.

I lost one of my socks in the washing machine.

Ella siempre usa calcetines de lana en invierno.

She always wears wool socks in winter.

Ponte los zapatos después de ponerte los calcetines.

Put on your shoes after putting on your socks.

It's Plural

This word is the plural form and means 'socks.' If you need to talk about just one, use the singular form: 'calcetín'.

Masculine Word

Even though it ends in '-es', this is a masculine word, so you must use 'los' or 'unos' before it: 'los calcetines'.

Confusing 'Calcetines' and 'Medias'

Mistake: “Using 'medias' when you mean short, casual socks.”

Correction: 'Calcetines' is the universal, safe word for everyday socks. 'Medias' often means tights, stockings, or dress socks, depending on the country.

medias

/mé-dias//ˈmeðjas/

nounA1general
Use 'medias' for socks that might extend higher up the leg, or for pantyhose/tights, though it can also refer to ankle socks in some regions.
A pair of brightly colored, patterned socks neatly folded on a surface.

Examples

Se le cayeron las medias mientras corría.

Her socks fell down while she was running.

Perdí una de mis medias favoritas en la lavadora.

I lost one of my favorite socks in the washing machine.

Ella siempre usa medias de lana en invierno.

She always wears wool stockings (or tights) in winter.

Gender and Number

Remember that 'medias' is always feminine and plural, even when referring to a single pair. The singular form is 'media'.

Calcetines vs. Medias

The most common mistake is using 'medias' when 'calcetines' is more appropriate. While 'medias' can sometimes mean socks, it more often refers to stockings or tights. Stick to 'calcetines' for standard socks to avoid confusion.

Related Translations

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