fenómeno
“fenómeno” means “phenomenon” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
phenomenon
Also: occurrence, sight
📝 In Action
El fenómeno de El Niño afecta el clima global.
B1The El Niño phenomenon affects the global climate.
Los científicos investigan este extraño fenómeno luminoso en el cielo.
B2Scientists are investigating this strange luminous phenomenon in the sky.
star, whiz
Also: marvel, smash hit
📝 In Action
Dicen que el nuevo delantero es un fenómeno; marca goles en cada partido.
B2They say the new forward is a star; he scores goals in every game.
La película fue un fenómeno de taquilla que nadie esperaba.
C1The movie was a box office smash hit that nobody expected.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: fenómeno
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'fenómeno' to mean 'a highly talented person'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the ancient Greek word *phainomenon*, which means 'that which appears' or 'that which is seen.' It entered Spanish via Latin, retaining its original sense of an observable event.
First recorded: 18th century (in its modern usage)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'fenómeno' always masculine?
Yes. Regardless of whether it's talking about a natural event or a talented person (male or female), 'fenómeno' is a masculine noun and always takes the article 'el' (el fenómeno).
Can I use 'fenómeno' as an adjective?
No. 'Fenómeno' is a noun. If you want to describe something as 'phenomenal' or 'fantastic,' you should use the related adjective 'fenomenal' (e.g., 'La comida estuvo fenomenal').