otorrinolaringólogo
/ˌotoˌrinoˌlaɾinˈɡoloɡo/
The English phrase ENT (ear, nose and throat) is translated into Spanish as otorrinolaringólogo.
The term refers to an ear, nose and throat specialist.
Meaning: ear, nose and throat (noun)
Which one should you use?
The full term otorrinolaringólogo is the standard word for the specialist, but you may also encounter the shortened form otorrino in casual conversation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun changes its ending to a to refer to a female specialist, as in otorrinolaringóloga. To form the plural, add s to the end of the word, such as otorrinolaringólogos.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌotoˌrinoˌlaɾinˈɡoloɡo/
Did you know?
- The term otorrinolaringólogo is a linguistic 'chimera' of three distinct Greek roots for 'ear', 'nose' and 'throat' fused into one long word.
- The root rin found in the middle of otorrinolaringólogo is a direct relative of the English word 'rhino', as in 'rhinoceros' or 'rhinoplasty'.
- In Spanish, the term otorrino is so common in daily speech that using the full word otorrinolaringólogo in a casual setting can sometimes sound unintentionally overly formal or pretentious.
Examples in context
- El otorrinolaringólogo me revisó el oído.The ENT checked my ear.
- Necesito pedir una cita con el otorrinolaringólogo.I need to make an appointment with the ENT.
Example conversation
Alejandro and Elena are talking at a coffee shop about health issues.
- Alejandro¿Te duele mucho la garganta?Does your throat hurt a lot?
- ElenaSí, voy a ver al otorrinolaringólogo mañana.Yes, I am going to see the ENT tomorrow.
- AlejandroEspero que el médico te ayude pronto.I hope the doctor helps you soon.
- ElenaGracias, Alejandro, espero que sea algo leve.Thanks, Alejandro, I hope it is something minor.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry otorrinolaringólogo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries otorrinolaringólogo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
