Spanish word

piel

Pronunciation

IPA/pjel/

Meaning

  • feminine nounskin

Example

Tiene la piel muy sensible.

She has very sensitive skin.

Illustration for piel (skin)

More examples

Usa crema para la piel después de la ducha.

She uses skin cream after the shower.

Core concept

Protective outer layer of the body that senses touch.

Common phrases

  • crema para la piel

    skin cream

  • piel sensible

    sensitive skin

  • cuidado de la piel

    skin care

Similar words

cutis: Soft facial skin used in skincare and cosmetic contexts.
tez: Visible color and overall appearance of the face; the complexion.
cuero: Durable material made from tanned animal hide used for garments and goods.

Definition in Spanish

Capa de tejido que recubre y protege el cuerpo y permite la sensibilidad, y también término para la piel transformada en cuero.

Word origin

From Latin pellis, Spanish piel comes via medieval sound changes and denotes the body's skin while also extending to animal hide and processed leather.

Usage tips

  • When talking about worked leather Spanish often uses cuero, and abrigo de piel commonly refers to a fur coat rather than a leather coat.

Other meanings

  • leathernoun

Word lists with this word