residuos
“residuos” means “waste” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
waste
Also: refuse, remains
📝 In Action
Debemos separar los residuos orgánicos de los plásticos.
A2We must separate organic waste from plastics.
La ciudad tiene un nuevo plan para la gestión de residuos.
B1The city has a new plan for waste management.
No dejes residuos de comida en la mesa.
B1Don't leave food remains on the table.
residue
Also: remainder
📝 In Action
El análisis detectó residuos de pólvora en sus manos.
B2The analysis detected gunpowder residue on his hands.
Al limpiar la herida, asegúrate de que no queden residuos.
C1When cleaning the wound, make sure no residue remains.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: residuos
Question 1 of 2
Which word is more formal and likely used in a government document about the environment?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'residuum', which means 'that which is left behind' or 'what remains'.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'residuos' always plural?
Not always, but it is much more common in the plural. You use 'residuo' when talking about one specific leftover piece, and 'residuos' when talking about waste in general.
Can I use 'residuos' for food leftovers?
Technically yes, but it sounds a bit like you are talking about garbage. For food you intend to eat later, use 'sobras'.