compañera
“compañera” means “companion” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
companion, colleague (female)
Also: associate
📝 In Action
Mi compañera de trabajo me ayudó con el proyecto.
A1My female colleague helped me with the project.
Ella es una compañera muy leal.
A2She is a very loyal companion.
classmate (female), roommate / flatmate (female)
Also: desk mate
📝 In Action
Mi compañera de clase me prestó sus apuntes.
A2My classmate lent me her notes.
Necesito encontrar una nueva compañera de piso para el mes que viene.
B1I need to find a new flatmate for next month.
partner (life partner)
Also: girlfriend
📝 In Action
Fuimos de vacaciones con mi compañera y sus padres.
B1We went on vacation with my partner and her parents.
Llevan diez años viviendo juntos; son compañeros de vida.
B2They have been living together for ten years; they are life partners.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: compañera
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'compañera' to refer to a long-term romantic relationship?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word has a wonderful origin story! It comes from the Late Latin *companio*, combining *com-* (meaning 'with') and *panis* (meaning 'bread'). Historically, a *compañero* was literally 'one who shares bread with you,' emphasizing the close bond of sharing resources and life.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish (around the 11th-12th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'compañera' to mean 'friend'?
Yes, you can! While 'amiga' is the most common word for a close friend, 'compañera' is perfect for a female associate, colleague, or someone you spend a lot of time with, even if the friendship isn't super deep.
Is 'compañera' the same as 'novia' (girlfriend)?
Not exactly. 'Novia' is usually used for dating or a newer relationship. 'Compañera' suggests a more established, long-term bond, often implying that the couple lives together, like a common-law marriage. It's a more serious term.