obrero
“obrero” means “worker” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
workerAlso: laborer, blue-collar worker
📝 In Action
El obrero lleva un casco de seguridad.
A1The worker is wearing a safety helmet.
Los obreros de la fábrica piden mejores salarios.
A2The factory workers are asking for better wages.
Se necesita un obrero especializado para este trabajo.
B2A skilled laborer is needed for this job.
Word Connections
working-classAlso: labor
📝 In Action
Crecí en un barrio obrero a las afueras de la ciudad.
B1I grew up in a working-class neighborhood on the outskirts of the city.
El movimiento obrero luchó por la jornada de ocho horas.
B2The labor movement fought for the eight-hour workday.
Pertenece a una familia de tradición obrera.
C1They belong to a family with a working-class tradition.
Word Connections
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "obrero" in Spanish:
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: obrero
Question 1 of 3
Which of these people is most likely to be called an 'obrero'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
📚 Etymology
From the Latin word 'operarius,' meaning someone who performs labor or work. This comes from 'opus' (meaning 'work' or 'deed'), which is also the root of English words like 'opera' and 'operate.'
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'obrero' offensive?
No, it is a standard and neutral term. In fact, it is often used with pride in labor movements and political contexts.
What is the difference between 'obrero' and 'trabajador'?
'Trabajador' is a general word for anyone who works (including doctors, CEOs, etc.). 'Obrero' is specific to manual or industrial labor.
Can 'obrero' be used for animals?
Yes! Specifically for insects. An 'abeja obrera' is a 'worker bee' and 'hormiga obrera' is a 'worker ant.'