cuna
/ˈkuna/
The English phrase "crib" is translated into Spanish as cuna.
cuna is used to refer to a baby's bed with high sides. You may also see the term cuna de colecho used for a specific type of crib designed for co-sleeping with parents. If you are referring to a simple bed or cot, the word catre can be used.
Meaning: a baby’s bed with high sides (noun)
Which one should you use?
While cuna can mean a cradle, it is the standard word for a modern baby's crib in most Spanish-speaking regions.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkuna/
Did you know?
- The phrase cuna de oro (golden crib) is used to describe someone born into wealth and privilege, similar to the English 'born with a silver spoon'.
- In some Latin American cultures, a cuna may be adorned with specific protective amulets to guard the baby from 'mal de ojo' or the evil eye.
- The word cuna shares a common ancestor with the English word 'kin', stemming from an ancient root meaning 'to settle' or 'to lie down'.
Examples in context
- Deje al bebé en la cuna.Leave the baby in the crib.This sentence is useful for seeing how to use cuna when placing a baby in their bed.Tatoeba #2867297 by rodolforr, translation #1860644 by CK
- El bebé duerme tranquilamente en su cuna nueva.The baby is peacefully sleeping in his new crib.
- El bebé está durmiendo en el catre que le compramos.The baby is sleeping in the crib we bought for him.
- ¡Mira qué lindo se ve el bebé en su moisés nuevo!Look how cute the baby looks in his new crib!
- El bebé está jugando dentro del corralito.The baby is playing inside the crib/playpen.
- La niña necesita una colcha para su camita.The girl needs a blanket for her crib/bed.
- El bebé duerme en la cuna.The baby is sleeping in the crib.
- Necesitamos una cuna nueva para el niño.We need a new crib for the boy.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Javier and Lucía are in a baby furniture store.
- Javier¿Te gusta esta cuna de madera?Do you like this wooden crib?
- LucíaSí, es muy bonita y segura.Yes, it is very pretty and safe.
- JavierEs perfecta para nuestro hijo.It is perfect for our son.
- LucíaEntonces, vamos a comprarla.Then, let's buy it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “crib” translations and entries cuna, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cuna, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
