organismo
“organismo” means “organism” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
organism, body
Also: creature
📝 In Action
El alcohol afecta a todo el organismo.
A2Alcohol affects the entire body.
Cada organismo vivo necesita agua para sobrevivir.
B1Every living organism needs water to survive.
Los científicos descubrieron un nuevo organismo en el fondo del mar.
B2Scientists discovered a new organism at the bottom of the sea.
agency, body
Also: institution
📝 In Action
La ONU es un organismo internacional.
B1The UN is an international body.
Este organismo público gestiona los impuestos.
B2This public agency manages taxes.
Varios organismos no gubernamentales enviaron ayuda.
C1Several non-governmental organizations sent help.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: organismo
Question 1 of 3
If a doctor says 'Tu organismo necesita vitaminas', what is they referring to?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Greek word 'organon' (meaning tool or instrument), which passed into Latin as 'organum'. It originally described how different parts work together like tools in a system.
First recorded: 18th century (in its modern biological sense)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'organismo' the same as 'cuerpo'?
Not exactly. 'Cuerpo' is the physical body you can see and touch. 'Organismo' refers more to the body as a living, functioning system of organs.
Can I use 'organismo' for a small business?
Usually, no. 'Organismo' is reserved for official, public, or large administrative bodies. For a business, 'empresa' or 'organización' is better.
Does it have a special plural form?
No, it's regular. Just add an 's': 'los organismos'.