secretaria
“secretaria” means “secretary” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
secretary
Also: administrative assistant
📝 In Action
Mi secretaria organiza todos mis viajes de negocios.
A1My secretary organizes all my business trips.
Hablé con la secretaria para confirmar la cita con el jefe.
A2I spoke with the secretary to confirm the appointment with the boss.
Secretary
Also: Minister
📝 In Action
La Secretaria de Estado viajará a Europa la próxima semana.
B2The Secretary of State will travel to Europe next week.
El presidente se reunió con la Secretaria de Finanzas.
C1The president met with the Secretary of Finance.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: secretaria
Question 1 of 1
¿Cuál de las siguientes palabras se refiere a la oficina o el edificio donde trabaja una secretaria?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Medieval Latin term *secretarius*, which literally meant 'one entrusted with secrets.' Historically, a secretary was a confidential clerk who handled private correspondence, emphasizing trust and discretion, which is why the word 'secreto' (secret) is part of the family.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'secretaria' y 'secretaría'?
The main difference is the accent mark! 'Secretaria' (no accent) is the person who works in the office (the assistant). 'Secretaría' (with an accent) is the name of the office, department, or administrative body itself (like the Department of Defense).
¿Se usa 'secretaria' para hombres?
No. 'Secretaria' is strictly feminine. If you are referring to a male assistant, you must use 'secretario'.