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

📅 Published: April 9, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

lápiz

noun • /[LAH-peeth]/

pencil

Example:

Escribe con lápiz.

Write with a pencil.

🧠 What does lápiz mean?

A writing or drawing implement consisting of a graphite or colored core enclosed in a protective casing, typically made of wood. It is used to make marks on surfaces, such as paper, and the marks can usually be erased. In Spanish, 'lápiz' refers specifically to this type of tool.

📚 Extra examples

  • Necesito un lápiz para hacer este ejercicio.
    I need a pencil to do this exercise.
  • El artista usó un lápiz de grafito para el boceto.
    The artist used a graphite pencil for the sketch.
  • ¿Tienes un lápiz de repuesto?
    Do you have a spare pencil?
  • Los niños dibujan con lápices de colores en la escuela.
    Children draw with colored pencils at school.
  • Borra esa línea con la goma del lápiz.
    Erase that line with the eraser on the pencil.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'lápiz' comes from the Latin word 'lapis', meaning 'stone'. This is likely due to the historical use of lead or other mineral-based substances for marking before graphite became common.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "lápiz"

Synonyms: esfero

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'pencil' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'pencil' is 'lápiz'.
How do you pronounce 'lápiz' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'lápiz' is approximately 'LAH-pees'. The stress is on the first syllable, and the 'z' sound is similar to the 's' in 'so'.
How do you use 'lápiz' in a sentence?
'Lápiz' is used as a noun in sentences to refer to the writing instrument. For example: 'Compré un lápiz nuevo.' (I bought a new pencil.)
What is the English translation of 'lápiz'?
The English translation of 'lápiz' is 'pencil'.
Does 'lápiz' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'lápiz' is a masculine noun. Its plural form is 'lápices'.
Is 'lápiz' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'lápiz' is a very common word used daily in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in educational and professional contexts.
Does 'lápiz' have slang or double meanings?
In its primary sense, 'lápiz' refers to the writing tool and does not typically carry slang or double meanings.
Is 'lápiz' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The word 'lápiz' is understood and used universally in both Spain and Latin America to mean 'pencil'. There are no significant regional variations in its usage.

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