Inklingo

alegría

ah-leh-GREE-ahaleˈɣɾia

alegría means joy in Spanish (The emotion of great happiness).

joy, happiness

Also: cheer
NounfA1
MexicoSpain (Andalusia)
A vibrant illustration of a young child leaping high with a wide smile and arms raised in an expression of pure happiness and excitement.

📝 In Action

La alegría de la Navidad llenaba toda la casa.

A1

The joy of Christmas filled the whole house.

Saltó de alegría cuando vio su nota en el examen.

A2

She jumped for joy when she saw her test score.

Siempre trae mucha alegría a las reuniones familiares.

B1

She always brings a lot of cheer/happiness to the family gatherings.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • felicidad (happiness (a deeper, more sustained state))
  • contento (contentment, gladness)
  • júbilo (jubilation, great rejoicing)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • sentir alegríato feel joy
  • lleno de alegríafull of joy

Idioms & Expressions

  • dar una alegría a alguiento give someone good news or make them happy

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "alegría" in Spanish:

cheer

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: alegría

Question 1 of 2

Which sentence correctly uses 'alegría'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
guíadía
📚 Etymology

The word comes from the Latin root *alacer*, meaning 'lively' or 'brisk.' It passed into Spanish via the adjective *alegre* (cheerful), giving us the noun *alegría* (cheerfulness/joy).

First recorded: 10th century

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: alegriaCatalan: alegria

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'alegría' and 'felicidad'?

'Alegría' (joy) is usually a sudden, intense, or temporary feeling of cheerfulness (like winning a game). 'Felicidad' (happiness) often refers to a deeper, more sustained state of well-being or contentment in life.

How do I use the verb form of 'alegría'?

The verb form is 'alegrar,' which means 'to cheer up' or 'to make happy.' For example, 'Tu visita me alegra' (Your visit cheers me up).