acero
“acero” means “steel” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
steel
📝 In Action
El rascacielos tiene una estructura de acero y cristal.
B1The skyscraper has a structure of steel and glass.
Compramos unos sartenes de acero inoxidable para la cocina.
B2We bought some stainless steel pans for the kitchen.
El acero es más fuerte que el hierro puro.
B1Steel is stronger than pure iron.
strength
Also: resilience, mettle
📝 In Action
Tuvo que demostrar su acero frente a las críticas de la prensa.
C1He had to show his mettle (strength/resilience) in the face of press criticism.
Mantenía una mirada de acero, sin mostrar miedo.
C2She maintained a steely gaze, without showing fear.
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🗣️ Practice in a Tongue Twister
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: acero
Question 1 of 1
If someone says, 'Ella tiene nervios de acero,' what do they mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *aciarium*, which is related to the root *acies*, meaning 'sharp point' or 'edge.' This historical connection highlights why steel is associated with hardness and the sharp edges needed for tools and weapons.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How is *acero* different from *hierro*?
*Hierro* is the Spanish word for pure iron. *Acero* (steel) is an alloy—a mix of iron and carbon, which makes it significantly stronger, harder, and more resistant to rust than pure iron.