Spanish Words That Start With H: Common Words You Need

Spanish words starting with "h" have a trick: the "h" is always silent! But there are still plenty of important words to learn. Here's your practical guide.

The H Rule: Always Silent

In Spanish, "h" is always silent. You see it, but you don't pronounce it:

• hola sounds like "ola"
• hambre sounds like "ambre"
• hacer sounds like "acer"

Must-Know Words Starting With H

Essential Verbs

• hacer (to do/make)
• hablar (to speak)
• haber (to have, auxiliary verb)
• habitar (to inhabit)

Everyday Nouns

• hombre (man)
• hijo/a (son/daughter)
• hermano/a (brother/sister)
• hora (hour)
• hambre (hunger)
• hospital (hospital)
• hotel (hotel)
• historia (history/story)

Useful Adjectives

• hermoso/a (beautiful)
• honesto/a (honest)
• humilde (humble)

Common Phrases to Practice

• Hacer + infinitivo — To do/make (something)
• Hablar español — To speak Spanish
• Tener hambre — To be hungry
• ¿Qué hora es? — What time is it?
• Hace calor — It's hot (hacer used for weather)

Quick Practice (5 Minutes)

1. Say 5 sentences using "hacer," "hablar," or "haber."
2. Use 3 nouns above in context.
3. Practice weather expressions: "Hace frío/calor."

Example: "Quiero hacer ejercicio. Necesito hablar español mejor."

Memorization Tip

"Hacer" is one of the most versatile verbs—it means "to do/make" and is used in many expressions. Master it early.

Make It Stick

The best way to learn vocabulary isn't memorization—it's using words in real conversations. Practice these "h" words in context, get instant feedback, and watch them become natural. Try Parlai and chat about topics you care about while building your vocabulary.