tercer
“tercer” means “third” in Spanish (ordinal number, preceding a masculine singular noun).
third
📝 In Action
Este es el tercer libro que leo este mes.
A1This is the third book I'm reading this month.
Vivimos en el tercer piso del edificio.
A1We live on the third floor of the building.
Ganó el tercer premio en la competencia de natación.
A2He won third prize in the swimming competition.
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Words that translate to "tercer" in Spanish:
third→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: tercer
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses the word 'third'?
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👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word *tertiarius*, meaning 'belonging to the third rank,' which itself is built upon *tres* (three).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'tercer' and 'tercero'?
They both mean 'third,' but 'tercer' is the required short form used only when it comes immediately *before* a singular masculine noun (e.g., 'tercer paso'). 'Tercero' is used when the word stands alone or comes *after* the noun (e.g., 'el paso tercero' or 'Él fue el tercero en llegar').
Does 'tercer' ever change for plural nouns?
No. When referring to plural masculine nouns, you use the full plural form: 'terceros' (e.g., 'los terceros pisos' - the third floors). 'Tercer' is strictly singular.