docente
“docente” means “teacher” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
teacher, educator
Also: faculty member
📝 In Action
La docente entregó las notas finales ayer.
A2The teacher handed out the final grades yesterday.
El centro necesita contratar a un nuevo docente de matemáticas.
B1The center needs to hire a new math teacher.
Todos los docentes deben asistir a la reunión del lunes.
B1All teachers must attend the meeting on Monday.
teaching, educational
📝 In Action
Ella tiene una larga trayectoria docente.
B2She has a long teaching career.
La labor docente es fundamental para el desarrollo del país.
C1The work of teaching is fundamental for the country's development.
El material docente está disponible en línea.
B2The teaching materials are available online.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: docente
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the correct way to refer to a female teacher using 'docente'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'docens', which is the present participle of 'docēre' (to teach). This is the same root that gives us 'document' and 'doctor'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'docente' used in all Spanish-speaking countries?
Yes, it is understood everywhere, though it is much more common in formal writing, news, and school administration than in casual conversation.
What is the difference between 'maestro' and 'docente'?
'Maestro' usually refers to elementary school teachers or someone who has mastered a craft. 'Docente' is a broad, formal term for anyone in the teaching profession at any level.
How do I say 'The teachers' (mixed group)?
You would say 'Los docentes'. Like most plural nouns in Spanish, the masculine plural is used for groups of men or mixed groups.