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hombro

OHM-broh/ˈombɾo/

“hombro” means “shoulder” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:

shoulder

NounmA1
A close-up illustration of a child's body focusing on the shoulder joint, which connects the arm to the torso.

📝 In Action

Me duele el hombro derecho después de cargar esas cajas.

A1

My right shoulder hurts after carrying those boxes.

Ella lleva su bolso colgado del hombro.

A2

She carries her bag hanging from her shoulder.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • espaldar (backrest (sometimes used metaphorically for support))

Common Collocations

  • encogerse de hombros – to shrug (literally: to shrink one's shoulders)
  • al hombro – on the shoulder (e.g., carrying a rifle)

Idioms & Expressions

  • mirar por encima del hombro – to look down on someone; to be condescending

responsibility, support

NounmB1
A small, determined person carrying a large, heavy wooden crate on their shoulder, symbolizing responsibility or burden.

📝 In Action

Tuve que cargar con el hombro de toda la organización.

B1

I had to bear the responsibility for the entire organization.

Siempre puedes contar con mi hombro para llorar.

B2

You can always count on my shoulder to cry on (for support).

Word Connections

Synonyms

Idioms & Expressions

  • echarse a los hombros – to take on a responsibility or burden
  • arrimar el hombro – to help out; to lend a hand

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "hombro" in Spanish:

responsibility→shoulder→support→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: hombro

Question 1 of 1

What is the best translation for the phrase 'Ella tiene hombros anchos'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
hombreada(shoulder barge/shove) — Noun
hombrera(shoulder pad/epaulette) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
escombroasombro
📚 Etymology▼

The word 'hombro' comes directly from the Latin word *huměrus*, which meant 'shoulder' or 'upper arm.' It has been used in Spanish since the earliest written records and is closely related to the English word 'humerus' (the bone in the upper arm).

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

Italian: omeroPortuguese: ombro

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I say 'on my shoulder' in Spanish?

You typically use the preposition 'al' or 'sobre'. For example, 'Lleva la mochila al hombro' (He carries the backpack on his shoulder). If you mean emotional support, use the full phrase 'contar con mi hombro' (count on my shoulder).

Is 'hombro' feminine or masculine?

'Hombro' is masculine. Remember to use the masculine definite article: 'el hombro' (the shoulder) and 'los hombros' (the shoulders).