moderna
“moderna” means “modern” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
modern, contemporary
Also: new
📝 In Action
Esta es la biblioteca más moderna de la ciudad.
A1This is the most modern library in the city.
La tecnología moderna facilita mucho el trabajo.
A2Modern technology makes work much easier.
Ella tiene una visión muy moderna de la política.
B1She has a very contemporary view of politics.
fashionable, hip
Also: up-to-date
📝 In Action
La diseñadora creó una colección muy moderna y atrevida.
B1The designer created a very fashionable and daring collection.
Ella es muy moderna en su forma de vestir.
B2She is very stylish in the way she dresses.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "moderna" in Spanish:
up-to-date→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: moderna
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'moderna' in its primary meaning?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Late Latin term *modernus*, which simply meant 'of the present time.' It's built on the Latin root *modo*, meaning 'just now.' Spanish adopted it to contrast things happening now with things from the past.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'moderna' and 'nueva'?
'Nueva' means 'new' in terms of age—something recently made or acquired (like a new shirt). 'Moderna' means 'modern' in terms of style or technology—something that reflects current trends or times (like a modern design). A house can be 'moderna' (stylish) but not 'nueva' (recently built).
How do I change 'moderna' to describe a group of things?
To describe a group of feminine things (like 'casas'), you add an -s to make it plural: 'modernas' (e.g., 'Las casas son modernas').

