traición
“traición” means “betrayal” in Spanish (act of breaking trust).
betrayal, treason
Also: treachery
📝 In Action
La traición de su socio comercial arruinó la empresa.
B1His business partner's betrayal ruined the company.
Para muchos, vender secretos de estado es el peor acto de traición.
B2For many, selling state secrets is the worst act of treason.
Sentí una profunda traición cuando descubrí que me había mentido.
B1I felt a deep betrayal when I discovered he had lied to me.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: traición
Question 1 of 2
Which word is the verb form meaning 'to commit the act of traición'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
This word comes from the Latin word *traditio*, which originally meant 'delivery' or 'handing over.' Over time, this concept shifted from simply delivering something to delivering someone (or secrets) to an enemy, leading to the meaning of treachery and betrayal.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'traición' the same as 'engaño'?
Not exactly. 'Traición' (betrayal) is a deep breach of trust or loyalty. 'Engaño' (deception or trickery) is the act of lying or misleading someone. While betrayal often involves deception, the core of 'traición' is the broken relationship, whereas 'engaño' is just the lie itself.
How do I say 'He felt betrayed' using a noun?
You can say 'Él sintió una gran traición' (He felt a great betrayal) or use the related verb and participle: 'Él se sintió traicionado' (He felt betrayed).