grueso
“grueso” means “thick” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
thick
Also: deep / low, heavy
📝 In Action
Este libro es muy grueso y pesa mucho.
A1This book is very thick and weighs a lot.
Necesitas un abrigo más grueso para el invierno.
A2You need a thicker coat for the winter.
El actor tiene una voz gruesa y potente.
B1The actor has a deep and powerful voice.
the bulk / the main part
Also: thickness
📝 In Action
El grueso de los manifestantes se quedó en la plaza.
B2The bulk of the protesters stayed in the square.
Ya hemos terminado el grueso del proyecto.
C1We have already finished the main part of the project.
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: grueso
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly describes a 'thick book'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'grossus', which meant thick or coarse. This root is shared with several other languages to describe something substantial or large.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'grueso' to describe a person?
You can, but it is often used as a more polite or formal alternative to 'gordo' (fat). However, in everyday conversation, it's mostly used for objects.
What is the difference between 'grueso' and 'espeso'?
'Grueso' is for solid objects or layers (a book, a wall). 'Espeso' is specifically for liquids or textures like soup, fog, or a forest.
Is 'grueso' the same as 'grosor'?
No, 'grueso' is the adjective (thick), while 'grosor' is the noun meaning the measurement (thickness).