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

📅 Published: April 12, 2026

🌶️ Mexican Slang

tamal

noun • /[ta-MAL]/

tamal

Example:

Mi abuela hace tamales deliciosos.

My grandmother makes delicious tamales.

🧠 What does tamal mean?

A tamal is a traditional Mesoamerican dish made from masa (a dough of ground nixtamalized corn), which is steamed in a corn husk or banana leaf. While the primary and literal meaning refers to this food item, in Mexican slang, 'tamal' can be used colloquially to refer to a person who is stingy or unwilling to share, particularly with money. This usage implies someone is 'wrapped up' or tightly held, much like a tamal is encased in its covering, and thus reluctant to give anything away.

📚 Extra examples

  • No seas tamal y paga la cuenta.
    Don't be stingy and pay the bill.
  • Siempre pide prestado pero nunca devuelve; es un tamal.
    He always borrows but never returns; he's a cheapskate.
  • Le pedí un poco de dinero, pero se hizo el tamal.
    I asked him for some money, but he played dumb/was unwilling to give it.

💡 Did You Know?

Tamales have a rich history and are a significant part of culinary traditions across Mexico and other parts of Latin America, often prepared for special celebrations and holidays.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "tamal"

Synonyms: tacaño, rata, mezquino, avaro
Opposites: generoso, desprendido, magnánimo

🔍 See more mexican slang words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'tamal' in Spanish?
The word for tamal in Spanish is 'tamal'.
How do you pronounce 'tamal' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is tah-MAHL. The stress is on the second syllable.
How do you use 'tamal' in a sentence?
When used as slang for a stingy person, it is typically used in contexts where someone is being reluctant to share or lend money, as in 'No seas tamal y comparte' (Don't be stingy and share).
What is the English translation of 'tamal'?
The literal English translation of 'tamal' is 'tamal' (referring to the food). As slang, it can be translated as 'stingy person,' 'cheapskate,' or 'tightwad.'
Does 'tamal' change for gender or number?
As a noun referring to the food, 'tamal' is masculine singular. Its plural form is 'tamales.' When used as slang for a person, it typically refers to a male person. To refer to a female person being stingy, the term 'tamala' is not standard slang; one would usually use other expressions.
Is 'tamal' common in everyday Spanish?
The word 'tamal' is very common in everyday Spanish when referring to the food. Its use as slang for a stingy person is primarily found in Mexico and is understood by many Spanish speakers, but might be considered more informal or regional.
Does 'tamal' have slang or double meanings?
Yes, besides its literal meaning as a food, 'tamal' is used in Mexican slang to describe someone who is stingy or unwilling to share, especially money.
Is 'tamal' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The literal meaning of 'tamal' as a food is understood across Spanish-speaking regions. However, its slang usage to mean 'stingy' is predominantly Mexican. In Spain, other words like 'rata' or 'tacaño' are more commonly used for a stingy person.

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