Spanish vocabulary · Beginner
How to Say Glue in Spanish
Pegamento · noun · peh-gah-MEHN-toh
The Spanish word for glue is 'pegamento,' derived from the verb 'pegar' (to stick). Other terms include 'cola' (especially for white school glue or wood glue) and 'goma' in some Latin American countries.
Pronounce it as peh-gah-MEHN-toh, with four syllables and the stress on the third. The word flows smoothly with clear vowels.
Necesito pegamento para arreglar el jarrón roto.
I need glue to fix the broken vase.
glue in Spanish: Quick Reference
Below are the most common Spanish words for glue, with pronunciation and regional usage notes.
| Spanish | English | Pronunciation | Region / Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| pegamento | glue | peh-gah-MEHN-toh | Default, widely understood |
| cola | glue | also means glue in many regions | |
| goma | glue | some Latin American countries |
How Native Speakers Use Pegamento
Real example sentences across three contexts you'll actually run into.
School project
Los niños usan pegamento para pegar las fotos en el papel.
The children use glue to stick the photos on the paper.
A craft activity in school.
Home repair
Compra cola de madera para arreglar la silla.
Buy wood glue to fix the chair.
Doing a home repair.
Art supplies
¿Tienes pegamento de barra o líquido?
Do you have a glue stick or liquid glue?
Asking about craft supplies.
Avoid These Mistakes When Using Pegamento
Confusing cola meanings
Incorrect: Quiero tomar una cola. (thinking it means glue)
Correct: Cola can mean glue, tail, or cola (the drink) depending on context.
'Cola' has multiple meanings in Spanish — glue, tail, queue, or cola drink — so context determines the meaning.
Using pegar as a noun
Incorrect: Dame el pegar.
Correct: Dame el pegamento.
'Pegar' is a verb meaning to stick or glue. The noun for the substance is 'pegamento.'
Lock in glue Vocabulary with the Parrot Method
Why word lists alone don't stick
Memorizing a translation feels productive, but most learners forget 70% of what they studied within 48 hours. Vocabulary needs spaced repetition AND real-world exposure to transfer to long-term memory.
See Pegamento used by native speakers
Parrot's short-form videos feature native speakers using pegamento in real situations. Context-based exposure beats flashcards, you hear Necesito pegamento para arreglar el jarrón roto. while watching someone live the moment, connecting meaning, sound, and rhythm at once.
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Common Questions About glue in Spanish
- What is the difference between pegamento and cola?
- Pegamento is the broadest term for any adhesive, while 'cola' specifically refers to certain types like white glue (cola blanca) or wood glue (cola de madera), and it also carries other meanings like tail or queue.
- How do you say glue stick in Spanish?
- A glue stick is called 'pegamento de barra' or 'barra de pegamento,' where 'barra' means stick or bar, commonly found in school supply lists.
- What is the verb for to glue in Spanish?
- The verb is 'pegar,' which means to stick, glue, or attach, and it also has other meanings like to hit — context makes the intended meaning clear.