ferrocarril
“ferrocarril” means “railway” in Spanish (the system of tracks and trains).
railway, railroad
Also: train
📝 In Action
El ferrocarril llegó a esta ciudad en 1850.
A2The railway arrived in this city in 1850.
Prefiero viajar por ferrocarril porque es más ecológico.
B1I prefer to travel by rail because it is more eco-friendly.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ferrocarril
Question 1 of 2
Which word would you use to describe the actual machine you board to travel?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
A combination of the Latin 'ferrum' (iron) and the Spanish word 'carril' (lane or track). It literally means 'iron track.'
First recorded: 19th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ferrocarril' used in every Spanish-speaking country?
Yes, it is understood everywhere, though some countries might prefer 'vía' for the tracks and 'tren' for the service.
How do I pronounce the double 'rr'?
Place the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth (just behind your teeth) and exhale so the tongue vibrates rapidly.