enfermería
“enfermería” means “nursing” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
nursing
Also: nursing studies
📝 In Action
Estudió enfermería porque le encanta ayudar a la gente.
A2She studied nursing because she loves helping people.
La enfermería es una profesión muy exigente pero gratificante.
B1Nursing is a very demanding but rewarding profession.
infirmary, nurse's office
Also: sickbay
📝 In Action
Me caí y me llevaron a la enfermería del colegio.
A2I fell and they took me to the school's nurse's office.
El marinero enfermo fue transferido a la enfermería del barco.
B2The sick sailor was transferred to the ship's sickbay.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: enfermería
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'enfermería' to mean the place, not the profession?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Spanish word *enfermo* (sick), which itself has Latin roots (*in-* meaning 'not' and *firmus* meaning 'firm' or 'strong'). So, *enfermería* literally means 'the place or practice of caring for those who are not strong.'
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'enfermería' and 'hospital'?
'Hospital' is a large medical center for serious care. 'Enfermería' is typically a smaller medical room or clinic located within another institution, like a school, factory, or military base. It's usually for minor injuries or temporary rest.
How do I say 'male nurse' and 'female nurse'?
The word 'enfermería' refers to the field itself. To refer to the person, use 'enfermero' for a male nurse and 'enfermera' for a female nurse.