Lael logo

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

📅 Published: March 30, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

plancha

noun • /[PLAN-chah]/

iron

Example:

La plancha está caliente.

The iron is hot.

🧠 What does plancha mean?

The noun "plancha" in Spanish refers to an appliance used for smoothing clothes by applying heat and pressure. It is an essential household item for maintaining the appearance of garments. The word originates from the Latin "planta," referring to a flat surface.

📚 Extra examples

  • Necesito planchar esta camisa antes de la reunión.
    I need to iron this shirt before the meeting.
  • La plancha dejó la ropa impecable.
    The iron left the clothes impeccable.
  • Es importante usar la temperatura correcta en la plancha para cada tipo de tela.
    It is important to use the correct temperature on the iron for each type of fabric.
  • La plancha moderna tiene funciones de vapor para facilitar el planchado.
    Modern irons have steam functions to make ironing easier.

💡 Did You Know?

The verb "planchar" also means to smooth out or to flatten. In some contexts, it can even refer to 'flirting' or 'making advances' in a colloquial way, though this usage is informal and context-dependent.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "plancha"

Synonyms: ropa caliente, aparato de planchar
Opposites: ropa arrugada

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'iron' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'iron' (the appliance) is "plancha."
How do you pronounce 'plancha' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of "plancha" is approximately PLAHN-chah. The 'll' sound in Spanish can vary by region, but often it sounds like the 'y' in 'yes' or a soft 'j'.
How do you use 'plancha' in a sentence?
"Plancha" is used as a noun, referring to the appliance itself, or as part of the verb "planchar" (to iron). For example: "La plancha está caliente" (The iron is hot) or "Voy a planchar la ropa" (I am going to iron the clothes).
What is the English translation of 'plancha'?
The primary English translation of "plancha" is 'iron' (referring to the household appliance).
Does 'plancha' change for gender or number?
Yes, as a noun, "plancha" is feminine and singular. The plural form is "planchas."
Is 'plancha' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, "plancha" is a very common word used in everyday Spanish, as ironing clothes is a regular household chore in many Spanish-speaking countries.
Does 'plancha' have slang or double meanings?
While "plancha" primarily refers to the iron, in some informal contexts, especially in certain Latin American countries, "plancha" can refer to a grilling plate or hotplate, particularly for cooking. It is not typically used as slang with unrelated meanings.
Is 'plancha' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The primary meaning of "plancha" as an iron for clothes is consistent across Spain and Latin America. In some Latin American regions, "plancha" may also refer to a griddle or hotplate used for cooking, a meaning less common for the word in Spain.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store