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

📅 Published: March 7, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

reloj

noun • /[rreh-LOH]/

watch

Example:

Su reloj es muy moderno.

His watch is very modern.

🧠 What does reloj mean?

The Spanish noun 'reloj' refers to a device used to measure and indicate time. This commonly includes wristwatches, but can also extend to wall clocks, alarm clocks, and other timekeeping instruments. It is a fundamental word for daily life and communication.

📚 Extra examples

  • Necesito comprar un reloj nuevo porque el mío está roto.
    I need to buy a new watch because mine is broken.
  • ¿Qué hora es? Mi reloj se paró.
    What time is it? My watch stopped.
  • Ese reloj de pared es una antigüedad.
    That wall clock is an antique.
  • Ponte el despertador en el reloj para no llegar tarde.
    Set the alarm on your watch so you are not late.
  • El reloj del ayuntamiento es muy conocido en la ciudad.
    The town hall clock is very well-known in the city.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'reloj' most commonly refers to a watch or clock, the word's origin is believed to come from the Latin word 'horologium', which referred to a sundial.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "reloj"

Synonyms: horario, cronómetro

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'watch' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'watch' in Spanish is 'reloj'.
How do you pronounce 'reloj' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'reloj' is roughly 'reh-LOKH'. The 'j' sound is a throaty 'kh' sound, similar to the 'ch' in Scottish 'loch'.
How do you use 'reloj' in a sentence?
'Reloj' is used as a noun. For example, 'Tengo un reloj nuevo' (I have a new watch) or 'El reloj marca las tres' (The clock strikes three).
What is the English translation of 'reloj'?
The primary English translation of 'reloj' is 'watch', but it can also mean 'clock'.
Does 'reloj' change for gender or number?
'Reloj' is a masculine noun. It changes for number: 'reloj' (singular) and 'relojes' (plural).
Is 'reloj' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'reloj' is a very common word in everyday Spanish, used to refer to timekeeping devices.
Does 'reloj' have slang or double meanings?
While 'reloj' itself is straightforward, phrases involving time or watches can sometimes have idiomatic meanings. However, the word itself does not typically carry slang or double meanings.
Is 'reloj' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning and usage of 'reloj' are the same in Spain and Latin America. Regional dialects might influence specific phrases related to time, but 'reloj' itself is universally understood.

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