porta
“porta” means “carries” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
carries, behaves
Also: wears, carry!
📝 In Action
El niño siempre se porta bien cuando hay visitas.
A2The boy always behaves well when there are visitors.
El atleta porta la antorcha olímpica con orgullo.
B1The athlete carries the Olympic torch with pride.
Él porta un uniforme oficial en el trabajo.
B2He wears an official uniform at work.
porthole, gunport
📝 In Action
El agua entró por la porta del barco durante la tormenta.
C1The water entered through the ship's porthole during the storm.
Los marineros cerraron las portas de la batería.
C2The sailors closed the gunports of the battery.
Es una porta pequeña para un barco tan grande.
B2It is a small opening for such a large ship.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: porta
Question 1 of 3
How would you say 'He behaves well' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'portāre' (to carry) and 'porta' (gate/door). These roots are cousins, both related to the idea of passing through or moving something.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'porta' the same as 'puerta'?
No. 'Puerta' is the standard word for 'door' in a house or building. 'Porta' is usually a verb form meaning 'carries' or a very specific nautical opening.
Can I use 'porta' to mean a computer port?
No, for technology, Spanish uses 'puerto' (masculine), such as 'puerto USB'.
What is the difference between 'lleva' and 'porta'?
'Lleva' is much more common for everyday carrying. 'Porta' is used for more formal things, like carrying a torch, a flag, or a concealed weapon.