sostén
“sostén” means “bra” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
bra
Also: brassiere
📝 In Action
Necesito comprar un sostén deportivo para ir al gimnasio.
A2I need to buy a sports bra to go to the gym.
El sostén está en el cajón de la ropa interior.
A1The bra is in the underwear drawer.
Este sostén me da buen soporte.
B1This bra gives me good support.
support, sustenance
Also: maintenance
📝 In Action
La familia es el sostén emocional en tiempos difíciles.
B1The family is the emotional support during difficult times.
El sostén económico del proyecto depende de los donativos.
B2The financial sustenance of the project depends on donations.
La columna sirve de sostén para todo el techo.
B2The column serves as support for the entire roof.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: sostén
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'sostén' in its abstract meaning of 'support'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'sostén' comes directly from the Spanish verb 'sostener,' which means 'to hold up' or 'to sustain.' This verb itself traces back to the Latin word 'sustinēre,' combining 'sub-' (under) and 'tenēre' (to hold). The noun 'sostén' literally means 'that which holds up.'
First recorded: Medieval Spanish (as the verb root)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'sostén' the only word for 'bra' in Spanish?
No. While 'sostén' is very common, especially in Latin America, you will also hear 'sujetador' (especially in Spain) and 'corpiño' (in some Southern Cone countries). All are correct, but usage varies by region.
Why is 'sostén' masculine?
Because it is derived directly from the masculine noun 'el sostén' (the support) which comes from the verb 'sostener' (to hold up). The grammatical gender is tied to its root meaning of 'support,' not the item itself.