penitenciario
“penitenciario” means “prison-related” in Spanish (referring to the system or buildings where people are held).
prison-related
Also: correctional, penitentiary
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El sistema penitenciario busca la reinserción de los presos.
B2The prison system seeks the reintegration of inmates.
Trabaja como guardia en un centro penitenciario.
B1He works as a guard in a correctional facility.
La reforma penitenciaria fue aprobada por el gobierno.
C1The prison reform was approved by the government.
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Quick Quiz: penitenciario
Question 1 of 3
Which phrase correctly describes a prison system?
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👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'poenitentiarius,' which is related to 'poenitentia' (penance or regret). It reflects the historical idea that prisons were places for people to feel sorry for their actions.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'penitenciario' just mean 'prison'?
Not exactly. It is an adjective meaning 'related to prison.' To say 'a prison,' you would usually say 'una cárcel' or 'un centro penitenciario'.
What is the difference between 'carcelario' and 'penitenciario'?
They are very similar. 'Carcelario' comes from 'cárcel' (jail/prison) and is a bit more common in speech. 'Penitenciario' is the more formal, technical term used by the government.
Is 'sistema penitenciario' masculine or feminine?
It is masculine. Even though 'sistema' ends in 'a,' it is a masculine noun, so we use the 'o' ending: 'el sistema penitenciario'.