colegas
“colegas” means “colleagues” in Spanish (professional peers).
colleagues, coworkers
Also: associates, pals
📝 In Action
Mis colegas de trabajo organizaron una fiesta sorpresa.
A2My colleagues from work organized a surprise party.
Ella es una de mis colegas más respetadas en la universidad.
B1She is one of my most respected colleagues at the university.
¿Vas a invitar a todos tus colegas a la conferencia?
B2Are you going to invite all your associates to the conference?
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: colegas
Question 1 of 2
¿Cuál es la forma correcta para referirse a un grupo de mujeres que trabajan contigo?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin *collega*, meaning 'a partner in office' or 'an associate,' combining *com-* ('with') and *legare* ('to choose, to send'). It refers to people chosen or sent to work alongside one another.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'colegas' only for professional settings?
While its main use is professional (coworkers, academic peers), in Spain, the singular form 'colega' is very common as an informal way to address a friend or acquaintance, similar to 'mate' or 'buddy'.
How do I make 'colega' feminine?
The word itself doesn't change its ending. To show it's feminine, you change the article: 'la colega' (singular) or 'las colegas' (plural).