Inklingo
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rostro

ROS-troh/ˈros.tɾo/

“rostro” means “face” in Spanish (the front part of the head).

face

Also: countenance, aspect
NounmA2
A close-up, simple illustration of a friendly human face, featuring large eyes and a gentle smile, set against a plain background.

📝 In Action

Su rostro reflejaba una profunda tristeza.

B1

His face reflected deep sadness.

La actriz era famosa por el rostro angelical que tenía.

A2

The actress was famous for the angelic face she had.

El rostro de la ciudad ha cambiado mucho en los últimos años.

B2

The face (aspect) of the city has changed a lot in recent years.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • cara (face (everyday use))
  • semblante (countenance, expression)

Common Collocations

  • mostrar el rostro – to show one's face
  • lavarse el rostro – to wash one's face

Idioms & Expressions

  • dar el rostro – to face a difficult situation; to stand up for oneself

🔀 Commonly Confused With

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "rostro" in Spanish:

aspect→countenance→face→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: rostro

Question 1 of 1

Which word is the most common and casual way to say 'face' in Spanish?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
rostrillo(small ornamental face covering (historical)) — Noun
rostral(rostral (relating to the beak or face)) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
postrecostro
📚 Etymology▼

The word 'rostro' comes from the Latin word *rostrum*, which originally meant 'beak' or 'muzzle' (the nose and mouth area of an animal). Over time, its meaning evolved in Spanish to specifically refer to the human face and expression.

First recorded: Medieval Spanish (around the 13th century)

Cognates (Related words)

Italian: rostroEnglish: rostrum

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'rostro' masculine or feminine?

'Rostro' is a masculine noun. You always use 'el rostro' (the face) or 'un rostro' (a face).

Can 'rostro' be used to describe an animal's face?

No, typically not. 'Rostro' is reserved almost exclusively for human faces. For an animal, you would use 'cara' (face) or 'hocico' (muzzle/snout).