extraterrestre
“extraterrestre” means “alien” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
alien
Also: ET, space alien
📝 In Action
Mi hermano dice que vio un extraterrestre cerca del bosque.
B1My brother says he saw an alien near the forest.
La película trata sobre un grupo de extraterrestres que invaden la Tierra.
B2The movie is about a group of aliens who invade Earth.
extraterrestrial
Also: off-world
📝 In Action
Los científicos buscan rastros de agua extraterrestre en la Luna.
B2Scientists are looking for traces of extraterrestrial water on the Moon.
Ese fenómeno no parece tener un origen terrestre, sino más bien extraterrestre.
C1That phenomenon doesn't seem to have an earthly origin, but rather an extraterrestrial one.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "extraterrestre" in Spanish:
alien→et→extraterrestrial→off-world→space alien→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: extraterrestre
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'extraterrestre' as a descriptive word (adjective)?
📚 More Resources
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word is a clear combination of two Latin roots. The prefix 'extra-' means 'outside of' or 'beyond,' and 'terrestre' comes from the Latin word for 'earth' or 'land' (*terra*). It literally means 'that which is outside the Earth.'
First recorded: Mid-20th century (in its modern, popular usage)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'extraterrestre' y 'alienígena'?
Both words mean 'alien.' 'Extraterrestre' is the older, more scientific and descriptive term, referring to anything (a being, a rock, a phenomenon) outside of Earth. 'Alienígena' (literally 'alien-born') is a synonym that is often used exclusively to refer to the being, especially in media and science fiction.

