negras
“negras” means “black” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
black
Also: dark-colored
📝 In Action
Las nubes negras anunciaban una tormenta inminente.
A1The black clouds announced an imminent storm.
Ella prefiere las faldas negras porque combinan con todo.
A2She prefers black skirts because they match everything.
dark
Also: grim, shady
📝 In Action
Tras el accidente, las perspectivas de la empresa se volvieron negras.
B2After the accident, the company's prospects turned grim/dark.
Ella siempre tiene ideas negras cuando está estresada.
B1She always has dark/pessimistic ideas when she is stressed.
Black women
📝 In Action
Las negras de la comunidad organizaron una protesta pacífica.
B2The Black women of the community organized a peaceful protest.
Muchas de las protagonistas de la película eran negras.
C1Many of the movie's protagonists were Black women.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: negras
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'negras' in its figurative sense (meaning negative or gloomy)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word *niger*, which meant 'black' or 'dark'. It is one of the most ancient and stable color terms in the language.
First recorded: Pre-dates the formation of Spanish as a distinct language (Vulgar Latin period)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'negras' and 'negros'?
'Negras' is used to describe feminine nouns (like 'camisas' or 'mujeres') that are plural. 'Negros' is used for masculine nouns (like 'pantalones' or 'hombres') that are plural. They both mean 'black'.
Is it rude to use 'negras' to refer to people?
It depends entirely on the region and the context. While it can be used neutrally as a descriptor, using it as a standalone noun can be considered informal or, in some places, offensive. In formal or sensitive situations, it is safer to use phrases like 'mujeres afrodescendientes'.