doctora
“doctora” means “doctor” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
doctor
Also: physician
📝 In Action
La doctora dijo que necesito descansar dos días.
A1The doctor said I need to rest for two days.
¿A qué hora es tu cita con la doctora Ramírez?
A2What time is your appointment with Doctor Ramírez?
Trabaja como doctora en el hospital central.
A1She works as a doctor in the central hospital.
doctor
Also: Dr.
📝 In Action
Ella es Doctora en Historia Medieval por la Universidad de Salamanca.
B2She holds a Doctorate in Medieval History from the University of Salamanca.
La Doctora Pérez dará una conferencia sobre la física cuántica.
B1Dr. Pérez will give a lecture on quantum physics.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: doctora
Question 1 of 1
If you are introducing your female history professor who has a Ph.D., which word should you use?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word 'doctor,' which literally meant 'teacher' or 'instructor.' It was historically used for those who had achieved the highest level of learning, which later extended to the medical field and required a separate feminine form in Spanish.
First recorded: 13th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'doctor' and 'doctora'?
'Doctor' is the standard form used for men (or sometimes generally), and 'doctora' is exclusively used for women. Spanish professions usually change based on the person's gender.
Can I use 'doctora' for any female professional?
No. 'Doctora' is reserved for women who are licensed medical physicians OR who have earned the highest academic degree (a Ph.D. or equivalent). For other professions, use the appropriate title (like 'abogada' for a lawyer or 'ingeniera' for an engineer).