Spanish

noun

Span·​ish ˈspa-nish How to pronounce Spanish (audio)
1
: the Romance language of the largest part of Spain and of the countries colonized by Spaniards
2
plural in construction : the people of Spain
Spanish adjective
Spanishness noun

Examples of Spanish in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Soldiers had posted red-and-white warning signs roughly the size of a sheet of notebook paper, in English and Spanish, affixed to metal posts in the sand about 30 yards north of the border fence. Lauren Villagran, USA Today, 26 May 2025 Please reach out with feedback, tips or ideas in English or Spanish. Carolyn Komatsoulis, Idaho Statesman, 26 May 2025 The Formula 1 season continues this weekend with the third race of this European triple-header as the paddock moves to Barcelona for the Spanish Grand Prix. Dan Cancian, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025 Study Spanish, Italian, or Dutch while in the car or air, via lessons that are downloaded and available without a Wi-Fi connection. Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 25 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for Spanish

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, adjective, from Middle English Spainish, from Spain

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Spanish was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Spanish.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Spanish. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

Spanish

noun
Span·​ish ˈspan-ish How to pronounce Spanish (audio)
1
: the Romance language of Spain and of the countries colonized by Spaniards
2
Spanish plural : the people of Spain
Spanish adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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