Inklingo
Dictionary

espada

es-PAH-dahesˈpaða

“espada” means “sword” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:

swordA1Noun

bladed weapon

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spadeB1Noun

card suit in Spanish decks (naipes)

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killing swordB2Noun

the specific weapon used by the matador for the final thrust

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swordAlso: saber

NounfA1
A high quality illustration of a single, straight silver sword with a golden hilt resting on a neutral background.

📝 In Action

El caballero desenvainó su espada para la batalla.

A1

The knight drew his sword for the battle.

La espada es un símbolo de honor y justicia en muchas culturas.

A2

The sword is a symbol of honor and justice in many cultures.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • desenvainar la espada – to draw the sword
  • manejar la espada – to handle the sword

Idioms & Expressions

spadeAlso: clubs

NounfB1
A stylized red suit symbol shaped like an upright sword blade, representing the spade suit in Spanish playing cards.

📝 In Action

Necesito el As de espadas para ganar la partida.

B1

I need the Ace of spades to win the game.

En la baraja española, las espadas tienen la forma de una hoja.

B2

In the Spanish deck, the spades are shaped like a blade.

Word Connections

Common Collocations

  • el palo de espadas – the suit of spades
  • carta de espadas – spade card

killing sword

NounfB2neutral / formal (bullfighting jargon)
Spain
A specialized, long, slightly curved silver sword known as an estoque, used by a matador for the final thrust.

📝 In Action

El torero entró con la espada para finalizar la faena.

B2

The bullfighter entered with the sword to conclude the final act.

La estocada se realiza con la espada de matar.

C1

The final thrust (estocada) is performed with the killing sword.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • estoque (rapier/killing sword)

Common Collocations

  • la espada de matar – the killing sword

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "espada" in Spanish:

clubskilling swordsaberspadesword

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: espada

Question 1 of 1

If you hear someone say, 'Me quedan solo dos espadas,' what are they most likely referring to?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family
espadachín(swordsman) — Noun
espadero(sword maker) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes
nadallamada
📚 Etymology

Comes from the Latin word *spatha*, which originally meant 'any broad, flat instrument' like a spatula or a paddle, but later evolved to mean a long, broad sword.

First recorded: Before 1000 AD (Vulgar Latin era)

Cognates (Related words)

Italian: spadaFrench: épée

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'espada' masculine or feminine?

'Espada' is always feminine. You must use 'la' or 'una' with it: 'la espada,' 'una espada fuerte'.

What is the difference between 'espada' and 'sable'?

'Espada' is the general word for 'sword,' typically straight. 'Sable' refers to a 'saber'—a specific type of sword with a curved blade.