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motín

mo-TEENmoˈtin

“motín” means “mutiny” in Spanish (a rebellion by sailors or soldiers against their officers).

mutiny, riot

Also: uprising, rebellion
NounmB2
General
A group of sailors standing together on a wooden ship deck, looking determined and refusing orders from their captain.

📝 In Action

Los prisioneros iniciaron un motín en la cárcel ayer.

B1

The prisoners started a riot in the jail yesterday.

La tripulación fue castigada después del motín en el barco.

B2

The crew was punished after the mutiny on the ship.

El gobierno temía que la falta de comida provocara un motín popular.

C1

The government feared that the lack of food would trigger a popular uprising.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • sofocar un motín – to suppress/put down a riot
  • cabecilla del motín – ringleader of the mutiny
  • estallar un motín – for a riot to break out

Idioms & Expressions

  • armar un motín – to cause a big scene or a loud protest

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "motín" in Spanish:

mutiny→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: motín

Question 1 of 3

If a group of sailors takes control of a ship from their captain, what is it called?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
amotinarse(to mutiny or rebel) — Verb
amotinado(mutineer or rebellious) — Adjective
amotinamiento(the act of mutinying) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
botínjardínfestín
📚 Etymology▼

From the French word 'mutin', which describes a rebellious person. This comes from 'meute', an old word for a revolt or a pack of dogs on the move.

First recorded: 16th century

Cognates (Related words)

French: mutinEnglish: mutiny

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a 'motín' and a 'huelga'?

A 'huelga' is a strike (stopping work to ask for better conditions), while a 'motín' is a violent or active rebellion against authority.

Can I use 'motín' for a protest in the street?

Yes, but 'manifestación' is the common word for a peaceful protest. 'Motín' implies violence, chaos, or a specific uprising against guards or officers.

Is 'motín' always a masculine noun?

Yes, it is always 'el motín'.