estadounidense
“estadounidense” means “US” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
US, American
📝 In Action
La bandera estadounidense tiene estrellas y franjas.
A2The US flag has stars and stripes.
Necesito un visado para trabajar en territorio estadounidense.
B1I need a visa to work in US territory.
American, US citizen
📝 In Action
Ella es estadounidense, pero vive en México.
A2She is American (a US citizen), but she lives in Mexico.
Los estadounidenses celebran el Día de la Independencia en julio.
A2Americans celebrate Independence Day in July.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: estadounidense
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'estadounidense' as an adjective?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word is a combination of 'Estados Unidos' (United States) and the common Spanish suffix '-ense', which is used to create demonyms (words for people from a place). It literally means 'from the United States.' It was created to be specific and avoid confusion with the broader term 'americano.'
First recorded: 19th century (became prominent in the mid-20th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'americano' acceptable instead of 'estadounidense'?
While 'americano' is sometimes used informally, especially by people from the U.S. themselves, it can be confusing or even offensive in many Spanish-speaking countries. 'Americano' technically means 'of the entire continent of America.' Always use 'estadounidense' for clarity and politeness when referring specifically to people or things from the United States.
Does 'estadounidense' change for men and women?
No, the word itself is 'invariable,' meaning it always stays the same regardless of gender. You only change the article (the little word before it): 'el estadounidense' (male) and 'la estadounidense' (female).