morder
“morder” means “to bite” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to bite
Also: to nibble, to sting/itch
📝 In Action
Ten cuidado, el perro puede morder si tiene miedo.
A1Be careful, the dog might bite if he is scared.
Siempre me muerdo las uñas cuando estoy nervioso.
A2I always bite my nails when I'm nervous.
Estos zapatos nuevos me muerden el talón.
B1These new shoes are pinching/biting my heel.
to erode
Also: to eat away
📝 In Action
El mar muerde la base del acantilado cada año más.
B2The sea eats away at the base of the cliff more every year.
El óxido ha empezado a morder el metal de la puerta.
C1The rust has started to eat away at the metal of the door.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "morder" in Spanish:
to bite→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: morder
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'We bite' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'mordēre', which has the same meaning of using teeth to grip or cut.
First recorded: 12th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'mordida' and 'mordisco'?
A 'mordida' is generally the act of biting or the mark left behind (and a bribe in some countries). A 'mordisco' is usually a small bite, like a nibble or a quick snap.
Is 'morder' irregular in the past tense (preterite)?
No. In the past tense, it follows the regular pattern: mordí, mordiste, mordió, etc. The 'ue' change only happens in the present.
Can 'morder' be used for bugs?
Yes, but Spanish speakers often use 'picar' (to sting/poke) for insects like mosquitoes or bees. Use 'morder' for things with actual jaws, like spiders or ants.