Spanish word

carretera

Pronunciation

IPA/kareˈteɾa/

Meaning

  • feminine nounroad

Example

La carretera está cerrada por obras.

The road is closed for construction.

Illustration for carretera (road)

More examples

Tomamos la carretera para evitar el tráfico de la ciudad.

We took the road to avoid city traffic.

Core concept

Marked intercity road for motor vehicles.

Common phrases

  • carretera de doble sentido

    two-way road

  • carretera nacional

    national road

  • carretera rural

    country road

Similar words

calle: Urban street alongside buildings for cars and pedestrians.
autopista: High-speed, limited-access motorway designed for fast traffic.
ruta: Designated route linking a start and a destination for travel.
camino: Narrow rural track or path used by walkers and light vehicles.

Definition in Spanish

Vía para el tránsito de vehículos que une distintas localidades, con uno o varios carriles y señalización adaptada al tráfico interurbano.

Word origin

The Spanish form comes from medieval Latin carraria, built from Latin carrus 'cart', reflecting routes for wheeled transport.

Usage tips

  • When describing travel, por carretera highlights going by road and contrasts with por autopista when the faster, controlled-access route is meant.

Word lists with this word