psíquico
“psíquico” means “mental” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
mental, psychological
Also: psychic
📝 In Action
El bienestar psíquico es tan importante como el físico.
B2Mental well-being is as important as physical well-being.
El doctor evaluó el desarrollo psíquico del niño.
C1The doctor evaluated the child's psychological development.
Ella sufrió un trauma psíquico después del accidente.
B2She suffered a mental trauma after the accident.
psychic
Also: medium
📝 In Action
El psíquico dice que puede hablar con los animales.
B1The psychic says he can talk to animals.
Fuimos a ver a una psíquica para saber el futuro.
B2We went to see a psychic to know the future.
Mucha gente no cree en los psíquicos.
B1Many people do not believe in psychics.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: psíquico
Question 1 of 3
Which of these means 'mental health'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Greek word 'psyche', which originally meant 'breath' or 'soul'. It evolved into the Latin 'psychicus' before becoming the Spanish word we use today.
First recorded: 17th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'mental' and 'psíquico'?
'Mental' is more common in everyday speech. 'Psíquico' sounds more formal or clinical when referring to the mind, or it can specifically refer to supernatural powers.
Is 'psíquico' used for both men and women?
As an adjective, it changes: 'el proceso psíquico' vs. 'la salud psíquica'. As a noun, you use 'el psíquico' for a man and 'la psíquica' for a woman.
Can I use 'psíquico' to talk about a therapist?
No, that would be confusing! A therapist is a 'psicólogo'. Use 'psíquico' only for things related to the mind in general or for people with supernatural 'sixth senses'.

