lateral
“lateral” means “side” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
side
Also: sideways, lateral
📝 In Action
Por favor, usa la puerta lateral para entrar.
A2Please use the side door to enter.
El coche tiene un fuerte golpe lateral.
B1The car has a heavy impact on the side.
El médico analizó los efectos laterales del tratamiento.
B2The doctor analyzed the side effects of the treatment.
fullback / wing-back
Also: side part
📝 In Action
El lateral derecho del equipo es muy rápido.
B1The team's right back is very fast.
Hubo un problema en el lateral del edificio.
B2There was a problem on the side of the building.
El defensa juega de lateral izquierdo.
B2The defender plays as a left back.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: lateral
Question 1 of 3
Which of these phrases correctly describes a 'side window'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'lateralis', which comes from 'latus' meaning 'side'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'lado' and 'lateral'?
'Lado' is a noun (e.g., 'el lado derecho' - the right side). 'Lateral' is usually an adjective used to describe something as being on the side (e.g., 'puerta lateral' - side door).
Does 'lateral' change if I'm talking about a girl?
As an adjective, no. 'El pasillo lateral' and 'la calle lateral' both use the same form. As a noun for a sports player, it becomes 'la lateral' for a woman.
Is it a formal word?
It is neutral. You can use it in a doctor's office, on a soccer field, or just talking about your house.