timbre means doorbell — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.
📅 Published: January 29, 2026
timbre
noun • /[TEEM-bre]/
doorbell
Example:
El timbre no funciona.
The doorbell doesn't work.
🧠 What does timbre mean?
The word 'timbre' refers to the device that produces a sound, typically a bell or buzz, when pressed to signal an arrival at a door. It is commonly used to indicate the doorbell of a residence or establishment.
📚 Extra examples
- Alguien tocó el timbre de la casa.
Someone rang the doorbell of the house. - Presiona el timbre para avisar que has llegado.
Press the doorbell to let them know you have arrived. - El timbre sonó insistentemente.
The doorbell rang insistently. - No hay timbre en esta puerta, hay que golpear.
There is no doorbell on this door, one must knock.
💡 Did You Know?
'Timbre' can also refer to a stamp, especially a postage stamp, in some Spanish-speaking regions. Pay attention to the context to understand the intended meaning.
🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "timbre"
Synonyms: campanilla, botonera
🔍 See more travel spanish words
❓ FAQ
How do you say 'doorbell' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'doorbell' is 'timbre'.
How do you pronounce 'timbre' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'timbre' in Spanish is 'TEEM-breh', with the stress on the first syllable.
How do you use 'timbre' in a sentence?
You can use 'timbre' in sentences such as 'El timbre no funciona' (The doorbell doesn't work) or 'Escuché el timbre' (I heard the doorbell).
What is the English translation of 'timbre'?
The primary English translation of 'timbre' is 'doorbell'.
Does 'timbre' change for gender or number?
'Timbre' is a masculine noun. It does not change for gender, and its plural form is 'timbres'.
Is 'timbre' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'timbre' is a very common and essential word for everyday communication in Spanish-speaking countries.
Does 'timbre' have slang or double meanings?
While 'timbre' primarily means doorbell, in some contexts, it can refer to a stamp or a type of tone or quality of sound, though 'doorbell' is its most frequent usage in travel contexts.
Is 'timbre' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning of 'timbre' as 'doorbell' is understood and used consistently across both Spain and Latin America. Regional variations for 'doorbell' might exist, such as 'pito' in some parts of Latin America, but 'timbre' is universally recognized.
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