veterinario
“veterinario” means “vet” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
vet
Also: veterinarian
📝 In Action
Tengo que llevar al perro al veterinario mañana.
A2I have to take the dog to the vet tomorrow.
El veterinario revisó a los caballos en la granja.
B1The vet checked the horses on the farm.
veterinary
Also: animal-related
📝 In Action
El centro veterinario está cerrado los domingos.
A2The veterinary center is closed on Sundays.
Necesitas un certificado veterinario para viajar con tu gato.
B1You need a veterinary certificate to travel with your cat.
Vocabulary Collections
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: veterinario
Question 1 of 2
If your cat is feeling sick, where should you go?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'veterinae', which refers to animals that work (beasts of burden). It literally means 'someone who works with old/working animals.'
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I call a female vet 'veterinario'?
While some people use the masculine form as a general term for the profession, it is much more natural and respectful to call a female vet 'la veterinaria'.
Does 'veterinario' mean an army veteran?
No. In Spanish, an army veteran is a 'veterano'. 'Veterinario' is strictly for animal doctors.

