viviente
“viviente” means “living” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
living
Also: alive
📝 In Action
La selva es un ecosistema viviente lleno de sorpresas.
B1The jungle is a living ecosystem full of surprises.
Cada ser viviente tiene un papel en el planeta.
A2Every living being has a role on the planet.
living soul
Also: living creature
📝 In Action
No quedaba ni un solo viviente en las calles tras la tormenta.
B2There wasn't a single living soul left in the streets after the storm.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: viviente
Question 1 of 2
Which of these is the most common way to say 'living being' in Spanish?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin word 'vivens', which is the describing form of 'vivere' (to live).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'vivo' and 'viviente'?
'Vivo' is the everyday word for 'alive' or 'living.' 'Viviente' is more formal and is often used to describe things as belonging to the category of life (like 'living organisms') rather than just checking if they are breathing right now.
Can I use 'viviente' to describe a person?
Yes, but it sounds very poetic or slightly old-fashioned. Usually, you'd use it in the phrase 'ni un viviente' (not a single soul) to describe an empty place.