How to Say "body" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “body” is “cuerpo” — use 'cuerpo' for the physical structure of a person or animal, the main part of an object like a text or building, a group acting as one, or a dead body..
cuerpo
/KWER-po//'kweɾpo/
Examples
Me duele todo el cuerpo después de hacer ejercicio.
My whole body hurts after exercising.
Es importante mantener el cuerpo hidratado.
It's important to keep the body hydrated.
El cuerpo del artículo explica la idea principal.
The body of the article explains the main idea.
El cuerpo de la guitarra es de madera de arce.
The body of the guitar is made of maple wood.
Always Masculine
Even though 'body' has no gender in English, 'cuerpo' is always a masculine word in Spanish. So, you'll always say 'el cuerpo' (the body) or 'un cuerpo' (a body).
Using `cadáver` vs. `cuerpo`
Mistake: “Thinking `cadáver` is the only word for a dead body.”
Correction: `Cuerpo` is very frequently used, especially in news reports or by officials. `Cadáver` is correct but can sound more clinical, like 'cadaver' in English.
corporal
/kohr-poh-RAHL//koɾpoˈɾal/
Examples
La expresión corporal es muy importante en el teatro.
Body language is very important in theater.
Ella usa una crema corporal para mantener su piel suave.
She uses a body cream to keep her skin soft.
El ejercicio mejora el bienestar corporal.
Exercise improves physical well-being.
One form for all
This word doesn't change for masculine or feminine. You can say 'el ejercicio corporal' or 'la crema corporal'—it stays exactly the same!
The 'Corporal' Trap
Mistake: “Using 'corporal' to refer to a military rank.”
Correction: In Spanish, a military corporal is called a 'cabo'. 'Corporal' only refers to the human body.
físico
Examples
Tiene un físico muy fuerte después de ir al gimnasio.
He has a very strong physique after going to the gym.
cuero
KWEH-roh/ˈkweɾo/
Examples
Me pica el cuero después de la picadura del mosquito.
My skin is itchy after the mosquito bite.
Se jugó el cuero por su familia.
He risked his neck (life) for his family.
masa
MAH-sah/ˈma.sa/
Examples
La masa de un objeto no cambia, sin importar dónde se encuentre.
The mass of an object does not change, regardless of where it is located.
Hay una gran masa de hielo flotando en el océano.
There is a large mass of ice floating in the ocean.
Masa vs. Peso
In science, 'masa' is the amount of matter in something, while 'peso' (weight) is the force of gravity pulling on that matter. In everyday Spanish, people often use 'peso' when they mean 'masa' (like asking '¿cuánto pesa?' instead of '¿cuál es su masa?').
templo
TEM-plo (Stress on the first syllable)/ˈtemplo/
Examples
Cuidar tu cuerpo es importante; es tu templo.
Taking care of your body is important; it's your temple.
La universidad es un templo del saber y la cultura.
The university is a temple (sanctuary) of knowledge and culture.
Cuidar de tu cuerpo es importante, es tu templo personal.
Taking care of your body is important; it is your personal temple.
Figurative Language
This meaning uses 'templo' as a metaphor, meaning a place or thing that is highly respected, important, or sacred, even if it’s not a physical building.
Confusing 'Cuerpo' with 'Corporal' and 'Físico'
Learn Spanish with Inklingo
Interactive stories, personalized learning, and more.