satélite
“satélite” means “satellite” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
satellite
Also: moon
📝 In Action
La Luna es el satélite natural de la Tierra.
A2The Moon is the Earth's natural satellite.
Necesitamos una antena para recibir la señal del satélite de televisión.
B1We need an antenna to receive the signal from the television satellite.
satellite state/entity
Also: subordinate
📝 In Action
Históricamente, ese país fue un satélite de la potencia vecina, sin verdadera autonomía.
B2Historically, that country was a satellite of the neighboring power, without true autonomy.
La pequeña editorial operaba como un satélite de la gran corporación mediática.
C1The small publishing house operated as a satellite of the large media corporation.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: satélite
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'satélite' in its figurative, political sense?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Latin term *satelles*, which originally meant 'attendant,' 'bodyguard,' or 'follower.' When Galileo first observed Jupiter’s moons in the 17th century, they were named *satellites* because they 'attended' or followed the planet.
First recorded: 17th century (in its astronomical sense)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'satélite' masculine or feminine?
'Satélite' is always a masculine noun, so you must use 'el satélite' or 'un satélite', regardless of what it is referring to.
Can 'satélite' refer to a person?
Yes, but usually in a negative or formal way. It implies that the person or group is merely a follower or subordinate of a more powerful leader or organization.