patrullar
“patrullar” means “to patrol” in Spanish (police, military, or security monitoring an area).
to patrol
Also: to scout
📝 In Action
La policía patrulla el centro de la ciudad todas las noches.
A2The police patrol the city center every night.
Vimos a varios soldados patrullando la frontera.
B1We saw several soldiers patrolling the border.
Es importante patrullar los pasillos del hospital para mayor seguridad.
B2It is important to patrol the hospital hallways for added security.
Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Indicative
Preterite
Imperfect
Present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: patrullar
Question 1 of 3
How do you say 'They patrol' in the present tense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the French word 'patrouiller', which originally meant 'to paddle in the mud,' describing how soldiers marched through muddy grounds while on watch.
First recorded: 18th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use 'patrullar' for a neighborhood watch?
Yes! Any organized effort to monitor a specific area for safety can be described as 'patrullar'.
What is a patrol car called in Spanish?
It is often called a 'patrulla' or a 'coche patrulla,' though 'patrullero' is common in some Latin American countries.
Is 'patrullar' used figuratively?
Occasionally, yes. You might hear someone say they are 'patrolling' the fridge when they are bored and looking for snacks.