quiste
/ˈkiste/masculine
The English word 'cyst' is translated into Spanish as quiste.
The term refers to a sac that develops in the natural cavities of an organ.
Meaning: sac which develops in the natural cavities of an organ (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, the phrase Quiste sebáceo is used to refer specifically to a sebaceous cyst. In Spain, the phrase Quiste sinovial is commonly used to refer to a synovial cyst.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkiste/
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, a 'sebaceous cyst' might be colloquially called a grano or bolita by patients before a doctor uses the formal term quiste.
- The Spanish word quiste traces its roots back to the Ancient Greek word kústis, which meant a 'pouch' or 'bladder'.
- The word quiste is spelled almost identically in Spanish and French, though the pronunciation differs significantly.
Examples in context
- Tenía un quiste sebáceo en el cuero cabelludo.She had a sebaceous cyst on her scalp.
- Desarrolló un quiste sinovial en la rodilla.He developed a synovial cyst in his knee.
- El médico encontró un quiste.The doctor found a cyst.
- Ese quiste es de grasa.That cyst is made of fat.
- Tengo un quiste en la pierna.I have a cyst on my leg.
Example conversation
Sofía is telling Alejandro about her medical results.
- SofíaAlejandro, el doctor encontró un quiste.Alejandro, the doctor found a cyst.
- Alejandro¿Es algo grave, Sofía?Is it something serious, Sofía?
- SofíaNo, es solo un quiste de agua.No, it is just a water cyst.
- AlejandroMe alegra mucho escuchar eso.I am very glad to hear that.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cyst” translations and entries quiste, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries quiste, CC BY-SA 4.0.
