Spanish word

pierna

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈpjeɾna/

Meaning

  • feminine nounleg

Example

Se me durmió la pierna.

My leg fell asleep.

Illustration for pierna (leg)

More examples

Me hicieron un masaje en la pierna tras la carrera.

I had a leg massage after the race.

Core concept

Weight-bearing member forming thigh, knee, and calf between hip and ankle.

Common phrases

  • masaje en la pierna

    leg massage

  • hinchazón en la pierna

    leg swelling

  • molestia en la pierna

    leg discomfort

Similar words

muslo: Thick upper section between hip and knee that supplies power for walking and jumping.
rodilla: Hinged area between thigh and shin that bends and straightens to enable walking and kneeling.
tobillo: Joint at the junction of lower leg and foot that pivots the foot and bears weight during movement.

Definition in Spanish

Miembro inferior que comprende desde la cadera hasta el tobillo y participa en el movimiento y en el equilibrio.

Word origin

Derived from Latin perna meaning 'ham' or 'leg', the word passes into the Romance vernaculars and yields Spanish pierna.

Usage tips

  • Everyday Spanish often uses the definite article with body parts (se me durmió la pierna, me duele la pierna) instead of a possessive.

Related words

  • piernitalittle legnoun
  • piernazoleg blownoun

Word lists with this word