angel
/AHN-hel/
angel
The word angel means a celestial being.
📝 In Action
La iglesia tiene una estatua de un ángel con alas grandes.
A2The church has a statue of an angel with large wings.
Dicen que cada persona tiene un ángel de la guarda.
B1They say every person has a guardian angel.
💡 Grammar Points
Masculine Noun Rule
Even though angels are often depicted without a clear gender, 'ángel' is always a masculine noun in Spanish and uses 'el' or 'un'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Religious Context
This is the standard term used in Spanish for the figures found in the Bible and religious art.
When referring to a sweet, kind person, angel translates to 'darling'.
📝 In Action
Mi hija es un ángel, nunca se queja.
A2My daughter is an angel; she never complains.
¡Gracias por la ayuda, eres un ángel!
A2Thank you for the help, you are an angel!
Su novio es un ángel; siempre le trae flores.
B1Her boyfriend is a sweetheart; he always brings her flowers.
💡 Grammar Points
Gender Stays Masculine
When you call a woman or girl 'an angel,' the word 'ángel' itself remains masculine: 'Ella es un ángel.' (She is an angel.) You do not change it to 'ángela'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Mixing up Gender
Mistake: "Mi hermana es una ángela."
Correction: Mi hermana es un ángel. ('Ángel' is always masculine, even if the person is female.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Affectionate Use
This is a very common and genuine compliment in Spanish-speaking cultures. It emphasizes innocence and goodness.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: angel
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'ángel' to refer to a very kind person?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'ángel' ever change its gender to 'ángela'?
No. 'Ángel' is always a masculine noun ('el ángel' or 'un ángel'), regardless of whether you are referring to a celestial being or a human male or female.
How do you use 'ángel' as a compliment?
You can say 'Eres un ángel' (You are an angel) to anyone who is exceptionally helpful, kind, or sweet. It's a high compliment.