Spanish word

cuidar

Pronunciation

IPA/kwiˈðaɾ/

Meaning

  • verblook after

Example

¿Puedes cuidar a mi hermano esta noche?

Can you look after my brother tonight?

Illustration for cuidar (look after)

More examples

Es importante cuidar la salud desde joven.

It's important to look after one's health from a young age.

Core concept

Watching over and maintaining someone's or something's condition.

Common phrases

  • cuidar a un niño

    look after a child

  • cuidar la salud

    look after one's health

  • cuidar de una persona mayor

    look after an elderly person

Similar words

ayudar: Lends a hand or assistance to solve a specific problem or need.
atender: Handles a person's needs or requests by giving attentive, service-oriented care.
ocuparse: Undertakes responsibility for a duty or another's welfare and follows up until resolved.
proteger: Protects a person or object from danger by preventing threats.

Definition in Spanish

Encargarse de mantener en buen estado o vigilar a alguien o algo, prestando atención a sus necesidades diarias.

Word origin

Spanish cuidar derives from Latin cavēre 'to be careful' and carries the sense of giving attentive care and keeping someone or something in good condition.

Usage tips

  • Cuidar expresses ongoing care or responsibility, whereas tener cuidado expresses being careful or cautious.

Other meanings

  • nurseverb
  • watch oververb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word