cumple

Cumple is a Spanish term most often used to refer to a birthday, short for cumpleaños. In everyday speech, people commonly say "mi cumple" or "mi cumpleaños" to denote the day on which someone has a birthday. The word also appears as the present tense form of the verb cumplir, meaning to fulfill or to reach. In sentences like "Él cumple 30 años" or "Ella cumple sus promesas," cumpl ir is used to indicate turning a certain age or fulfilling an obligation.

Etymology-wise, the noun cumpleaños comes from the phrase "cumplir años," literally “to fulfill years,” reflecting the passing of another year since birth. The shorter form "cumple" functions as an informal shorthand for the occasion in many Spanish-speaking regions.

Cultural practice around the cumple or cumpleaños varies but commonly includes a celebration with family and friends, a cake with candles, and the singing of "Feliz cumpleaños." Gifts are frequently exchanged, and the event may be held at home, in restaurants, or at other venues. Regional customs can add elements such as serenades, games, or special meals, and age-related milestones are often celebrated differently across countries.

Usage notes indicate that "cumple" is widely understood as informal shorthand for the birthday itself, while "cumpleaños" remains the standard, neutral term. Both forms are used in speech, with preference depending on region, formality, and context.