sección
“sección” means “section” in Spanish (A part of a whole (book, document, road)).
section, department
Also: division, aisle
📝 In Action
Busquemos la información en la sección de deportes del periódico.
A2Let's look for the information in the sports section of the newspaper.
¿Sabes dónde está la sección de lácteos en este supermercado?
A1Do you know where the dairy section is in this supermarket?
Mi primo trabaja en la sección de contabilidad de una empresa grande.
B1My cousin works in the accounting department (section) of a large company.
La carretera tuvo que cerrar una sección debido a las obras.
B2The highway had to close a section due to construction.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sección
Question 1 of 2
Which English word best translates 'la sección de cosméticos' in a large store?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Latin word *sectio*, which means 'the act of cutting' or 'a cut'. It entered Spanish and kept its meaning of describing a part that has been divided or cut away from the main body.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'sección' feminine even though it ends in 'n'?
Spanish words ending in '-ción' (like 'nación,' 'canción,' 'información') are almost universally feminine. This ending comes from a feminine Latin root, which Spanish has preserved.
Can I use 'departamento' instead of 'sección'?
Yes, often. 'Departamento' is very common for major corporate or governmental divisions (like the Department of Defense). 'Sección' is often preferred for smaller divisions, like parts of a book, newspaper, or areas within a supermarket.