mecanismo
“mecanismo” means “mechanism” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
mechanism
Also: works, device
📝 In Action
El mecanismo del reloj es muy delicado.
B1The watch's mechanism is very delicate.
No entiendo cómo funciona este mecanismo de apertura.
B2I don't understand how this opening mechanism works.
process
Also: procedure, method
📝 In Action
Necesitamos un mecanismo para resolver conflictos.
B2We need a mechanism/process for resolving conflicts.
El cerebro tiene mecanismos de defensa naturales.
C1The brain has natural defense mechanisms.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: mecanismo
Question 1 of 2
Which of these is a 'mecanismo de defensa'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Greek word 'mēkhanē' meaning 'machine' or 'tool,' which traveled through Latin as 'mechanismus'.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'mecanismo' for a computer program?
Yes, if you are talking about a specific part of the code that performs a function, but 'función' or 'proceso' is often more common.
What's the difference between 'mecanismo' and 'aparato'?
An 'aparato' is the physical device itself (like a gadget), while 'mecanismo' refers to the way the parts inside that device work together.