piedad
“piedad” means “pity” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
pity, mercy
Also: compassion
📝 In Action
El juez tuvo piedad y le redujo la sentencia.
B1The judge showed mercy and reduced his sentence.
Por piedad, no me dejes aquí solo.
B2For pity's sake (or 'Have mercy'), don't leave me here alone.
Sentí una gran piedad por los animales abandonados.
B1I felt great pity for the abandoned animals.
piety
Also: devotion
📝 In Action
La abuela era conocida por su profunda piedad y asistencia diaria a misa.
C1The grandmother was known for her deep piety and daily attendance at mass.
El cuadro representa las siete obras de piedad.
C2The painting represents the seven acts of piety (or 'works of mercy').
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: piedad
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'piedad' in the sense of religious devotion?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes directly from the Latin word *pietās*, which originally meant 'dutiful conduct' or 'loyalty' toward the gods, one's family, and the state. This sense of duty broadened into both religious devotion and compassion for others.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'piedad' and 'lástima'?
'Lástima' usually means 'a shame' or 'a feeling of mild sadness/regret' (e.g., '¡Qué lástima que no vinieras!' — What a shame you didn't come!). 'Piedad' is much stronger; it means deep compassion or mercy, usually felt toward someone who is suffering or powerless.
Can I use 'piedad' to describe a person?
No, 'piedad' is a feeling or a quality. To describe a person as having this quality, you must use the adjective 'piadoso' (for a male) or 'piadosa' (for a female). Example: 'Es una persona piadosa' (She is a compassionate/pious person).