Learning a new language is an exciting journey, and diving into local slang is a fantastic way to connect more deeply with its culture. Galician, a language spoken by around 2.4 million people primarily in the autonomous community of Galicia in northwestern Spain, is rich in expressions and slang that are not just fun to learn but also provide insights into Galician culture and lifestyle. This article explores some of the most common and colorful Galician slang words, with Galician examples to help you understand their use in everyday conversation.

1. Molar

This verb is widely used among younger speakers and means “to like” or “to be cool.” It’s used to express that someone or something is appealing or attractive.

Galician: Mola moito ese filme, temos que velo outra vez!

2. Tertulia

A “tertulia” is a gathering where people come together to discuss topics like literature, politics, or simply to share the latest gossip. It’s a deeply rooted cultural practice in Galicia and Spain at large.

Galician: Os mércores hai tertulia na cafetería da praza.

3. Foliada

This term refers to a traditional Galician party or gathering, usually involving folk music, dancing, and plenty of eating and drinking. It’s a vibrant expression of Galician cultural heritage.

Galician: Vamos á foliada en San Xoán, vai ser unha noite inesquecible!

4. Chiringuito

A “chiringuito” is a small, often temporary, beachside bar where drinks and snacks are sold. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the Galician coast and socialize during the summer.

Galician: Quedamos no chiringuito ás oito para ver o solpor.

5. Morrer de risa

This phrase means “to die of laughter” and is used when something is extremely funny. It emphasizes the intensity of the laughter.

Galician: Cando contou ese chiste, morrín de risa.

6. Chapuza

A “chapuza” is a botched job or a poorly done task. It’s often used to describe amateur or shoddy work.

Galician: Fixeron unha chapuza coa reparación do coche.

7. Apalpador

The “Apalpador” is a mythical Galician character similar to Santa Claus, who visits children on Christmas to give them gifts. This term adds a touch of Galician folklore to the language.

Galician: O Apalpador ven esta noite para deixar agasallos.

8. Xeito

“Xeito” means a way or method of doing something. It can also refer to a skill or knack for something.

Galician: Ten moito xeito para a música.

9. Larpeira

A “larpeira” is a type of sweet Galician pastry, but it can also refer to someone who has a sweet tooth or loves eating sweets.

Galician: Miña avoa é moi larpeira, sempre ten algo doce na casa.

10. Sobremesa

“Sobremesa” refers to the time spent lingering at the table chatting after a meal. It’s a cherished cultural practice in Galicia, as in the rest of Spain, symbolizing leisure and enjoyment of life.

Galician: As sobremesas nas comidas de domingo son as mellores.

11. Meigas

“Meigas” are witches, and the term is deeply rooted in Galician folklore, which is rich with legends of supernatural beings. The expression “Habelas, hailas” (There are them, there are) often follows when talking about “meigas.”

Galician: Nas festas de Samain sempre falamos das meigas.

12. Resaca

“Resaca” is the Galician word for hangover. It’s a useful term after a night enjoying Galician wines or the vibrant local “fiestas.”

Galician: Teño unha resaca terrible despois da festa de onte.

13. Feirante

A “feirante” is a market vendor. Markets or “feiras” are common in Galicia, where locals buy fresh produce, seafood, and other goods.

Galician: O feirante da praza sempre ten froitas frescas.

14. Chuvia

“Chuvia” means rain, a frequent weather condition in Galicia. This word is essential for anyone living in or visiting the region.

Galician: En Galicia sempre hai que levar un paraugas por se acaso chove.

15. Traídoira

“Traídoira” means traitorous or treacherous, often used to describe the unpredictable Galician weather.

Galician: A meteoroloxía galega é ben traídoira; nunca sabes cando vai cambiar.

Understanding and using local slang can immensely enrich your experience of learning Galician. It allows you to communicate more naturally and connect with native speakers on a deeper level. As you continue your language learning journey, embrace these expressions and enjoy the cultural nuances they bring.