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resaca means hangover — a common term in Mexican Slang. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: April 27, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

resaca

noun • /[re-SA-ka]/

hangover

Example:

La resaca fue terrible.

The hangover was terrible.

🧠 What does resaca mean?

The noun 'resaca' refers to the unpleasant physical and mental symptoms experienced after consuming a significant amount of alcohol, commonly known in English as a hangover. While the term is understood in many Spanish-speaking countries, it is particularly prevalent and frequently used in Mexico.

📚 Extra examples

  • Anoche bebí demasiado y hoy tengo una resaca terrible.
    Last night I drank too much, and today I have a terrible hangover.
  • Necesito mucho café para curar esta resaca.
    I need a lot of coffee to cure this hangover.
  • La fiesta fue increíble, pero la resaca no tanto.
    The party was incredible, but the hangover not so much.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'resaca' can also refer to the undertow or backwash of waves in the sea, highlighting its connection to a receding or lingering effect.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "resaca"

Synonyms: cruda (Mexico), goma (some Latin American countries), malestar post-ingesta alcohólica (formal)
Opposites: Sobriedad (sobriety), Bienestar (well-being)

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'hangover' in Spanish?
The most common and widely understood term for 'hangover' in Spanish is 'resaca'.
How do you pronounce 'resaca' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is reh-SAH-kah. The 'r' is a single flap, the 's' is like the English 's', the 'a' sounds are like the 'a' in 'father', and the 'c' before 'a' sounds like the English 'k'.
How do you use 'resaca' in a sentence?
'Resaca' is used as a noun, typically preceded by an article like 'una' (a) or 'la' (the), or a possessive adjective like 'mi' (my) or 'su' (his/her/their). For example, 'Tengo resaca' (I have a hangover).
What is the English translation of 'resaca'?
The direct English translation of 'resaca' is 'hangover'.
Does 'resaca' change for gender or number?
No, 'resaca' is a feminine noun, but its form does not change for number. It is always 'resaca', whether referring to one hangover or multiple instances of hangovers. However, it is most commonly used in the singular.
Is 'resaca' common in everyday Spanish?
'Resaca' is very common in everyday Spanish, especially in Mexico, for referring to the state of having a hangover.
Does 'resaca' have slang or double meanings?
While 'resaca' is primarily understood as a hangover, in some contexts, it can also refer to the 'undertow' or 'backwash' of waves in the sea. However, the most common and relevant meaning for learners is the hangover.
Is 'resaca' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
While 'resaca' is understood in Spain, other terms like 'cruda' (Mexico) or 'goma' (some parts of Latin America) are also used. 'Resaca' is particularly common and natural-sounding in Mexico.

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