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raza

RAH-sahˈraθa

race, ethnic group

NounfB2
A colorful illustration of three simple, stylized human figures standing together, showcasing different skin tones and hair textures, symbolizing a human group or race.

📝 In Action

La diversidad de razas en la ciudad es impresionante.

B2

The diversity of ethnic groups in the city is impressive.

El museo celebra la historia de todas las razas.

C1

The museum celebrates the history of all races/ethnicities.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • etnia (ethnicity)
  • pueblo (people, community)

Common Collocations

  • diversidad de razas – racial/ethnic diversity
  • origen racial – racial origin

breed

Also: stock, variety
NounfA2
A simple storybook illustration showing two very different types of dogs, a small brown chihuahua and a large fluffy white poodle, standing near each other.

📝 In Action

Mi perro es de raza pequeña.

A2

My dog is a small breed.

¿Qué raza de caballo prefieres para montar?

B1

What breed of horse do you prefer for riding?

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • pura raza – purebred
  • raza mixta – mixed breed

lineage, quality

Also: character
NounfC1formal
A simple storybook illustration showing three stylized figures of descending size, representing a grandparent, parent, and child, connected by a stylized root structure at their base, symbolizing lineage.

📝 In Action

Ese vino tiene una raza excelente; es de la mejor cosecha.

C1

That wine has an excellent quality/character; it's from the best harvest.

Demostró la raza de un verdadero campeón al no rendirse.

C2

He showed the mettle (lineage/quality) of a true champion by not giving up.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Common Collocations

  • tener raza – to have quality/mettle

Translate to Spanish

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: raza

Question 1 of 2

Which meaning of 'raza' is used when talking about a specific type of dog?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
racial(racial) — Adjective
mestizaje(mixing of races/cultures) — Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

The word comes from the older Spanish word 'raza,' which may have originated from the Latin word 'radius' (meaning 'ray' or 'line') or from Arabic roots meaning 'head' or 'origin.' It originally referred to a line of descent or a distinct type.

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: raçaFrench: race

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'raza' the best word to use when talking about human groups?

While 'raza' is understood, many Spanish speakers prefer 'etnia' (ethnicity) or 'origen' (origin) when discussing human heritage or groups, as 'raza' can sometimes be associated with outdated or problematic concepts.

Does 'raza' have a masculine form?

No, 'raza' is always a feminine noun, regardless of what it refers to. You must use 'la raza' or 'una raza'.