How to Say "maiden" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “maiden” is “doncella” — use 'doncella' when referring to a young, unmarried woman, especially in historical or literary contexts, similar to how 'maiden' is often used in English.
English → Spanish
doncella
don-SAY-yahdonˈθeʝa
nounC1literary
Use 'doncella' when referring to a young, unmarried woman, especially in historical or literary contexts, similar to how 'maiden' is often used in English.
Examples
El caballero juró proteger a la joven doncella.
The knight swore to protect the young maiden.
virgen
BEE-rhen'biɾxen
nounB1archaic or literary
Opt for 'virgen' when the emphasis is specifically on virginity or purity, often in very old texts or when referring to a consecrated state.
Examples
Las vestales romanas eran vírgenes dedicadas al templo.
The Roman Vestals were virgins dedicated to the temple.
Se dice que la diosa era una virgen.
It is said that the goddess was a virgin.
Gender Usage
While the word 'virgen' itself doesn't change form, the article and context show the gender: 'la virgen' (female) and 'el virgen' (male, though less common as a noun).
Doncella vs. Virgen
Learners often confuse 'doncella' and 'virgen' because 'maiden' can imply both youth and purity in English. However, 'doncella' focuses on the unmarried status and youth, while 'virgen' strictly means virgin. Use 'doncella' for the general concept of a maiden and 'virgen' only when virginity is the key attribute.
Related Translations
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