Inklingo

cerebros

seh-reh-brohs/θeˈɾe.βɾos/

cerebros means brains in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

brains

NounmA2
Two detailed pink human brains are shown resting side by side on a light blue surface.

📝 In Action

Los científicos estudian cómo funcionan los cerebros.

A2

Scientists study how brains work.

Tuvimos que usar nuestros cerebros para resolver el problema.

B1

We had to use our brains to solve the problem.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • encéfalos (brains, encephalons)

Common Collocations

  • lavar los cerebrosto brainwash

masterminds

Also: intellectuals, brains
NounmB2
Two stylized figures standing together. One figure points decisively forward, and the other holds a rolled-up scroll, conveying leadership and strategic planning.

📝 In Action

Ellos fueron los cerebros detrás de la operación exitosa.

B2

They were the masterminds behind the successful operation.

Los cerebros del equipo de diseño se reunieron para debatir.

C1

The brains (the intellectual leaders) of the design team met to debate.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • mentes (minds, intellectuals)
  • genios (geniuses)

Common Collocations

  • los cerebros de la bandathe masterminds of the gang

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "cerebros" in Spanish:

intellectualsmasterminds

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: cerebros

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence uses 'cerebros' in its figurative meaning (masterminds)?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
escombroshombros
📚 Etymology

Comes directly from the Latin word 'cerebrum', which meant 'brain'. Its meaning has remained consistent for thousands of years, referring to the physical organ of thought.

First recorded: Medieval Latin texts (via Vulgar Latin)

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: cérebrosItalian: cervelli

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'cerebros' masculine or feminine?

'Cerebros' is a masculine noun. You must use the masculine article 'los' (los cerebros) or the masculine adjective forms.

When do I use 'cerebros' versus 'mentes'?

'Cerebros' refers to the physical organs inside the skull. 'Mentes' (minds) refers to the abstract concepts of thought, consciousness, or intellect. However, when talking about smart people, both can sometimes be used interchangeably, but 'cerebros' usually implies strategic planning or leadership.