cicatriz
/see-kah-TREES/
scar
A 'cicatriz' is often a physical mark left by a healed wound, like this scar on the skin.
📝 In Action
Tiene una cicatriz grande en el codo por una caída de niño.
B1He has a large scar on his elbow from a fall as a child.
La crema ayuda a que la cicatriz se vea menos.
B2The cream helps the scar look less noticeable.
Después de la operación, solo quedó una pequeña cicatriz.
B1After the operation, only a small scar remained.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Noun Ending in -Z
Even though many Spanish nouns ending in -z are masculine, 'cicatriz' is feminine. Remember to use 'la' or 'una' with it: 'la cicatriz'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Gender Confusion
Mistake: "El cicatriz"
Correction: La cicatriz. This word is always feminine.
⭐ Usage Tips
Verb Partner
The most common verb used with 'cicatriz' is 'dejar' (to leave): 'La herida dejó una cicatriz' (The wound left a scar).
The word 'cicatriz' can also refer to an 'emotional scar' or lasting psychological trauma, symbolized here by a mended heart.
cicatriz(noun)
emotional scar
?lasting psychological trauma or painful memory
lasting trauma
?a permanent mark of suffering
📝 In Action
La pérdida de su madre le dejó una cicatriz profunda en el alma.
C1The loss of his mother left a deep scar on his soul.
Esa traición fue una cicatriz que nunca sanó completamente.
C1That betrayal was a scar that never fully healed.
💡 Grammar Points
Figurative Use
Like in English, 'cicatriz' is often used metaphorically to describe permanent emotional damage or a lasting painful memory.
⭐ Usage Tips
Adjectives for Depth
When using this figurative meaning, pair it with adjectives like 'profunda' (deep), 'dolorosa' (painful), or 'permanente' (permanent) to emphasize the lasting effect.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: cicatriz
Question 1 of 2
¿Cuál es el mejor sinónimo para 'cicatriz' en un contexto emocional?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'cicatriz' used only for serious wounds?
No, 'cicatriz' can refer to any mark left after healing, from a minor cut to a major surgical incision. It is also very commonly used to talk about emotional or psychological hurts.
How do I say 'to scar' in Spanish?
The verb is 'cicatrizar.' For example, 'La herida va a cicatrizar pronto' (The wound is going to heal/scar over soon).