liras
“liras” means “lira (currency)” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
lira (currency)
Also: Italian lire, Turkish lira
📝 In Action
Antes de usar el euro, Italia usaba las liras.
B1Before using the euro, Italy used the lire.
Necesitas cambiar tus euros a liras turcas antes de viajar.
B2You need to exchange your euros for Turkish liras before traveling.
El valor de las liras ha subido esta semana.
B2The value of the liras has risen this week.
lyres
Also: lyric poems
📝 In Action
En la antigua Grecia, los poetas tocaban sus liras mientras recitaban.
C1In ancient Greece, poets played their lyres while reciting.
El libro está lleno de liras dedicadas a la naturaleza.
C2The book is full of lyric poems dedicated to nature.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: liras
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'liras' to refer to money?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin *lyra*, which itself came from the ancient Greek word *λύρα* (lýra), meaning 'lyre.' This instrument was strongly associated with poetry and music. The currency meaning developed much later, as the instrument was often used as an emblem on coins, symbolizing value or quality.
First recorded: Medieval period (in Spanish, reflecting the Latin root)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Italian Lira still used?
No. Italy adopted the Euro in 2002. However, the Turkish Lira is still the official currency of Turkey.
¿'Liras' is feminine or masculine?
It is feminine. Since the singular is 'la lira,' the plural is 'las liras.' You must use feminine articles and adjectives with it.

