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calcetín means sock — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 4, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

calcetín

noun • /[kal-seh-TEEN]/

sock

Example:

Me falta un calcetín del par.

I'm missing one sock from the pair.

🧠 What does calcetín mean?

A 'calcetín' is a piece of clothing worn on the foot, typically extending up to the ankle or calf. Calcetines are usually worn in pairs, covering each foot, and are often paired with shoes. They are made from various materials such as cotton, wool, or synthetic fabrics and serve purposes of warmth, comfort, and protection for the feet.

📚 Extra examples

  • Perdí un calcetín en la lavadora.
    I lost a sock in the washing machine.
  • Necesito comprar calcetines nuevos porque estos están gastados.
    I need to buy new socks because these are worn out.
  • Se puso unos calcetines de lana para estar más cómodo.
    He put on some wool socks to be more comfortable.
  • El niño siempre tira los calcetines debajo de la cama.
    The child always throws the socks under the bed.
  • Asegúrate de que los calcetines hagan juego con los zapatos.
    Make sure the socks match the shoes.

💡 Did You Know?

The plural form 'calcetines' is frequently used to refer to socks in general, and when talking about a pair, one might say 'un par de calcetines'. The origin of the word 'calcetín' comes from 'calza', meaning leg covering.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "calcetín"

Synonyms: media

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'sock' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'sock' is 'calcetín'.
How do you pronounce 'calcetín' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'calcetín' is approximately cal-seh-TEEN. The 'c' before 'e' sounds like 's', the 't' is soft, and the accent on the final 'i' indicates the stressed syllable.
How do you use 'calcetín' in a sentence?
A 'calcetín' is used when referring to the garment worn on the foot. For example, 'Necesito un calcetín limpio' (I need a clean sock) or 'Lava tus calcetines' (Wash your socks).
What is the English translation of 'calcetín'?
The English translation of 'calcetín' is 'sock'.
Does 'calcetín' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'calcetín' is a masculine noun. In the singular, it is 'el calcetín'. In the plural, it becomes 'los calcetines'.
Is 'calcetín' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'calcetín' is a very common word used in everyday Spanish, as socks are a daily necessity for most people.
Does 'calcetín' have slang or double meanings?
While 'calcetín' itself does not typically have slang or double meanings, in some colloquial contexts, phrases involving socks might be used humorously, but the word itself remains literal.
Is 'calcetín' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The word 'calcetín' is universally understood and used in both Spain and Latin America for 'sock'. Regional variations might exist for specific types of socks or related clothing items, but 'calcetín' is the standard term.

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