Spanish word

prótesis

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈpɾotesis/

Meaning

  • feminine nounartificial limb

Example

La prótesis le permite caminar mejor.

The artificial limb allows him to walk better.

Illustration for prótesis (artificial limb)

More examples

La prótesis dental le permitió comer sin dolor.

The dental prosthesis allowed them to eat without pain.

Core concept

Artificial replacement or external appliance that restores the function or appearance of a lost body part.

Common phrases

  • prótesis dental

    dental prosthesis

  • prótesis de pierna

    prosthetic leg

Similar words

implante: Anchors into bone or tissue as a surgically implanted artificial structure to restore function.
órtesis: Provides external support or bracing for a joint or limb to control motion and reduce stress.

Definition in Spanish

Dispositivo artificial que reemplaza o complementa una parte del cuerpo perdida para recuperar su función o su apariencia.

Word origin

The term comes from Greek πρόθεσις (pro- 'before' + τίθημι 'to place') via Latin and refers to objects placed on the body to replace or support a part.

Usage tips

  • The noun is feminine (la prótesis), the written accent remains in the plural (las prótesis), and Spanish commonly uses llevar or usar to say someone has or uses one.

Other meanings

  • prosthesisnoun

Related words

  • protésicoprostheticadjective

Word lists with this word