60 Words That Are the Same in English and Spanish (With Meanings and Examples)

If you’ve ever studied Spanish and had a moment of, “Wait… that word is exactly the same!” — you’re not imagining things. English and Spanish share a lot of vocabulary, especially due to shared Latin roots and the influence of globalization. These words are known as cognates — words that look and mean the same in both languages.

Some of them are spelled identically, pronounced almost the same, and have overlapping meanings, making them easy for language learners to remember. Others may look the same but carry subtle or wildly different meanings (these are known as false cognates).

This list highlights 60 words that are spelled the same in English and Spanish — with definitions and examples — to boost your vocabulary in both languages!

Group 1: Everyday Nouns

1. Hotel – a place for lodging
   Example: We stayed at a hotel by the beach.
2. Animal – any living creature
   Example: The lion is a wild animal.
3. Hospital – medical care facility
   Example: She works at the hospital downtown.
4. Doctor – medical professional
   Example: I need to see a doctor about my cold.
5. Actor – someone who performs in movies or plays
   Example: He’s a famous actor in Spain.
6. Color – hue or shade (note: “color” is used in both, though “colour” is British English)
   Example: Red is my favorite color.
7. Taxi – a vehicle for hire
   Example: Let’s call a taxi to the airport.
8. Motor – engine
   Example: The motor stopped working.
9. Radio – broadcast medium or device
   Example: I listen to the radio every morning.
10. Hotel – used the same way in both languages
    Example: Our hotel had a rooftop pool.

Group 2: Science & Education Terms

11. Idea – a thought or concept
    Example: That’s a brilliant idea!
12. Problem – an issue or difficulty
    Example: We solved the problem quickly.
13. Plan – a strategy or arrangement
    Example: Let’s make a plan for the weekend.
14. Class – a course or group of students
    Example: Our math class starts at 9 a.m.
15. Natural – not artificial
    Example: This product is made from natural ingredients.
16. Manual – a guide or done by hand
    Example: I read the manual before assembling it.
17. Material – substance or content
    Example: The material is soft and stretchy.
18. Animal – again, fits here as well
    Example: My favorite animal is the dolphin.
19. Normal – usual or expected
    Example: That’s a normal reaction.
20. Original – authentic or first version
    Example: This is the original artwork.

Group 3: Arts & Culture

21. Festival – a celebration or event
    Example: The music festival was amazing.
22. Music – sounds or melodies
    Example: I love classical music.
23. Drama – theatrical play or intense situation
    Example: She starred in a school drama.
24. Artist – creator of art
    Example: He’s a street artist from Mexico City.
25. Culture – customs, beliefs, and traditions
    Example: Food is a huge part of culture.
26. Instrument – musical device or tool
    Example: I play the violin, my favorite instrument.
27. Photo – a picture
    Example: That’s a beautiful photo of the sunset.
28. Radio – relevant here too
    Example: The radio plays old-school hits on Sundays.
29. Opera – a dramatic musical performance
    Example: We went to the opera last night.
30. Video – recorded footage
    Example: I watched a funny video online.

Group 4: Technology & Modern Life

31. Internet – global web network
    Example: The internet is down today.
32. Robot – machine with automation
    Example: The robot vacuum cleans by itself.
33. Digital – involving computers or numbers
    Example: I prefer digital books to paper ones.
34. Access – entry or permission
    Example: I lost access to my email.
35. Document – a file or official paper
    Example: Please upload the document before 5 PM.
36. Control – to manage or direct
    Example: I have control over the thermostat.
37. Video – also fits here
    Example: He uploaded a new video to YouTube.
38. Camera – device for taking pictures
    Example: I need a new camera for my trip.
39. Program – software or a TV show
    Example: This app is a new fitness program.
40. Password – security access code
    Example: Never share your password with anyone.

Group 5: Abstract Concepts & Emotions

51. Idea – used again as abstract concept
    Example: That’s a great idea for a project.
52. Emotion – feeling or state of mind
    Example: Joy is a powerful emotion.
53. Passion – strong enthusiasm
    Example: Her passion for music is contagious.
54. Terror – extreme fear
    Example: The movie filled me with terror.
55. Honor – respect or recognition
    Example: It’s an honor to meet you.
56. Energy – power or vitality
    Example: Kids have endless energy.
57. Fantasy – imagination-based idea
    Example: Dragons exist in fantasy, not reality.
58. Silence – absence of sound
    Example: There was a peaceful silence.
59. Memory – recollection
    Example: That photo brings back a memory.
60. Spirit – emotional strength or soul
    Example: Her spirit never gave up.

Final Thoughts

Learning a new language can feel daunting, but discovering words that are identical in both English and Spanish makes it easier—and more fun. Whether you’re just starting to learn or brushing up on what you know, these shared words give you a head start.

So next time you hear someone say “animal” or “video,” smile—you already understand more than you think.