Spanish word

abrazar

Pronunciation

IPA/aβɾaˈθaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbhug

Example

Siempre abrazo a mi hijo antes de dormir.

I always hug my son before bed.

Illustration for abrazar (hug)

More examples

En la reunión decidimos abrazar la propuesta del grupo.

At the meeting we decided to embrace the group's proposal.

Core concept

Parent holding a child close with both arms wrapped around them.

Common phrases

  • abrazar a alguien

    hug someone

  • abrazar a un amigo

    hug a friend

  • abrazar con fuerza

    hug tightly

Similar words

besar: Touches another person with the lips to show affection or give a greeting.
saludar: Uses words or gestures to greet someone when meeting or parting.
acariciar: Gently strokes with the hand or fingers to show affection or soothe.
consolar: Offers words and support to someone who is sad to ease their distress.

Definition in Spanish

Tomar a alguien con los brazos y apretarlo contra el cuerpo para dar consuelo, afecto o calidez; por extensión, adoptar o aceptar algo de manera afectuosa.

Word origin

The verb derives from Latin bracchium 'arm' via a Romance verbal formation and etymologically refers to enclosing someone with the arms.

Usage tips

  • When the direct object is a person, Spanish requires the personal a, as in Siempre abrazo a mi hijo.

Other meanings

  • acceptverb
  • adoptverb
  • embraceverb

Opposites

Related words

  • abrazohugnoun
  • abrazadoembracedadjective

Word lists with this word