parasimpático
/paɾasimpatiko/from spelling rules
The English word "parasympathetic" is translated into Spanish as parasimpático.
This adjective is used to describe things relating to a part of the autonomic nervous system. For example, the phrase "parasympathetic nervous system" is translated as sistema parasimpático.
Meaning: relating to part of the autonomic nervous system (adj)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Spain, locals might use the word vagotonía to describe the parasympathetic state within medical circles.
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjective, the word must agree with the noun it describes. Use the feminine form parasimpática to agree with feminine nouns like respuesta (response). Use the masculine plural form parasimpáticos to agree with masculine plural nouns, and the feminine plural form parasimpáticas to agree with feminine plural nouns.
How do you pronounce it?
/paɾasimpatiko/
Did you know?
- The word simpático in Spanish is much more common in daily life than its English counterpart 'sympathetic', usually meaning 'nice' or 'friendly' rather than 'feeling pity'.
- Spanish speakers use the word simpatía to describe a natural chemistry or rapport between people, a concept not directly captured by the English word 'sympathy'.
- Because parasimpático is derived from the Greek 'para' (beside/beyond) and 'sympatheia' (feeling together), it shares a root with the English word 'sympathy'.
Examples in context
- El sistema parasimpático regula las funciones del cuerpo durante los períodos de descanso.The parasympathetic system regulates the body's functions during rest periods.
- El sistema parasimpático ayuda a relajarse.The parasympathetic system helps to relax.
- Esa respuesta es de carácter parasimpático.That response is of a parasympathetic nature.
- El nervio parasimpático controla la digestión.The parasympathetic nerve controls digestion.
Example conversation
Two medical students are studying for an exam in the library.
- AlejandroLucía, ¿cuál es la función del sistema parasimpático?Lucía, what is the function of the parasympathetic system?
- LucíaSe encarga de conservar la energía del cuerpo.It is responsible for conserving the body's energy.
- AlejandroEntonces es lo opuesto al sistema simpático.So it is the opposite of the sympathetic system.
- LucíaExacto, Alejandro, trabajan en equilibrio.Exactly, Alejandro, they work in balance.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “parasympathetic” translations and entries parasimpático, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries parasimpático, CC BY-SA 4.0.
