esclava
“esclava” means “slave” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
slave
Also: bondwoman
📝 In Action
La esclava luchó valientemente por su libertad.
B1The slave fought bravely for her freedom.
En la antigua Roma, una esclava podía trabajar en el hogar.
B2In ancient Rome, a female slave could work in the home.
ID bracelet
Also: bangle
📝 In Action
Mi abuela me regaló una esclava de plata con mi nombre.
B1My grandmother gave me a silver ID bracelet with my name.
Llevo una esclava de oro en mi muñeca derecha.
A2I wear a gold bangle on my right wrist.
slave (to something)
Also: enslaved
📝 In Action
Ella se siente esclava de su trabajo.
B1She feels like a slave to her work.
No seas esclava de la moda.
B2Don't be a slave to fashion.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: esclava
Question 1 of 2
If you buy a piece of jewelry called an 'esclava', what does it likely look like?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'sclava'. This originally referred to people of Slavic origin who were often captured and forced into service during the Middle Ages.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'esclava' an offensive word?
When referring to historical slavery or the jewelry, it is a neutral term. However, like in English, it should be used with sensitivity when discussing people or human rights.
Why is a bracelet called 'esclava'?
The name comes from the visual similarity between these bracelets (especially the chain-and-plate style) and the shackles historically used to bind people.