calientes
“calientes” means “hot” in Spanish. It has 4 different meanings depending on context:
hot, warm
📝 In Action
Las bebidas están calientes, ten cuidado.
A1The drinks are hot, be careful.
Necesito mantas porque mis pies están fríos y quiero que estén calientes.
A2I need blankets because my feet are cold and I want them to be warm.
spicy, piquant
📝 In Action
Estos tacos están calientes, ¡trae leche!
B1These tacos are spicy, bring milk!
Para mí, todos los platos mexicanos son demasiado calientes.
B1For me, all Mexican dishes are too spicy.
heated, passionate
Also: arousing
📝 In Action
Las discusiones políticas siempre se ponen calientes en esta familia.
B2Political discussions always get heated in this family.
Tienen unos temperamentos muy calientes; siempre están gritando.
C1They have very passionate/fiery temperaments; they are always shouting.
you warm up, you heat up
📝 In Action
Necesito que calientes la comida antes de servirla.
B1I need you to warm up the food before serving it.
No calientes el agua demasiado, por favor.
B1Don't heat the water too much, please. (Negative command)
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: calientes
Question 1 of 1
Which meaning of 'calientes' is being used in the sentence: 'Las noticias sobre el escándalo estaban muy calientes.'
📚 More Resources
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *calens*, which means 'being hot' or 'glowing'. It has always been related to the concept of heat and warmth.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
If 'calientes' is the plural of 'caliente', why is it also a verb form?
This is a common overlap in Spanish! 'Calientes' functions as the plural adjective (meaning 'hot things'). It is also the specific conjugation of the verb 'calentar' (to heat up) used when talking to 'tú' (you) in the special subjunctive mood, which is needed for wishes or suggestions.
How do I know if 'calientes' means 'hot' or 'spicy'?
Context is key. If you are describing food, especially in Mexico, it likely means 'spicy.' If you are describing water, coffee, or weather, it means 'hot' (temperature).