ruido
“ruido” means “noise” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
noise
Also: loud sound, racket
📝 In Action
No puedo dormir porque los vecinos hacen mucho ruido.
A1I can't sleep because the neighbors make a lot of noise.
Escuché un ruido extraño en la cocina anoche.
A2I heard a strange sound in the kitchen last night.
Baja la música, por favor. Hay demasiado ruido aquí.
A1Turn down the music, please. There is too much noise here.
fuss, commotion
Also: publicity
📝 In Action
El nuevo proyecto del gobierno causó mucho ruido en la prensa.
B1The government's new project caused a lot of fuss in the press.
No hagas ruido por algo tan pequeño.
B2Don't make a fuss over something so small.
Su renuncia fue un ruido mediático que duró una semana.
C1His resignation was a media uproar that lasted one week.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ruido
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'ruido' in its most common A1 context?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin term *rugītus*, which referred to a 'roar' or a 'loud cry.' It emphasizes the forceful, often unpleasant nature of the sound.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'ruido' y 'sonido'?
Both mean 'sound,' but 'ruido' specifically refers to unwanted, unpleasant, or loud noise (like traffic or shouting). 'Sonido' is the neutral term for any auditory sensation (like the sound of a guitar or a soft voice).
How do I complain about noise pollution using this word?
A very common phrase is 'Hay mucho ruido' (There is a lot of noise) or, if you want someone to stop, '¡Dejen de hacer ruido!' (Stop making noise!).