hermanas
“hermanas” means “sisters” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
sisters
Also: siblings (female group)
📝 In Action
Mis hermanas y yo vamos al cine esta noche.
A1My sisters and I are going to the cinema tonight.
Tengo dos hermanas mayores que viven en Madrid.
A2I have two older sisters who live in Madrid.
nuns
Also: sisters
📝 In Action
Las hermanas del convento cuidan de los ancianos.
B1The sisters (nuns) of the convent look after the elderly.
Pedimos ayuda a las hermanas de la caridad.
B2We asked the Sisters of Charity for help.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: hermanas
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'hermanas' to mean female siblings?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'hermana' comes from the Latin word *germana*, which is the feminine form of *germanus*, meaning 'of the same parents' or 'full brother/sister.' Over time, the initial 'g' sound softened and disappeared in Spanish.
First recorded: Around the 10th century in early Romance languages.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I say 'my brothers and sisters' in Spanish?
You use the masculine plural form: 'mis hermanos.' In Spanish, when referring to a group that includes both males and females, the masculine form is used for the whole group.
Can 'hermanas' ever mean just 'friends'?
While the singular 'hermana' is often used affectionately for a very close female friend (like 'sister' in English), the plural 'hermanas' usually means biological siblings or religious sisters. You are safer using 'amigas' (friends) or 'compañeras' (companions) for a group of friends.