férula
/ˈfeɾula/feminine
The English word splint is translated into Spanish as férula or tablilla.
Meaning: immobilizing device (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| férula | /ˈfeɾula/ | feminine |
| tablilla | /taˈbliʝa/ | feminine |
Which one should you use?
férula is the standard term for a medical splint or a rigid brace used to immobilize a limb. In contrast, tablilla is often used to refer to a smaller, simpler splint made of wood or a thin slat.
Is it said differently in some regions?
tablilla is more commonly heard in specific Latin American countries.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
To describe the action of applying a splint to a broken limb, use the verb entablillar.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈfeɾula/
Did you know?
- The Spanish word férula shares a common ancestor with the obsolete English word 'ferula', which referred to a ruler or a stick used for punishment.
- In some Spanish-speaking regions, férula is used not just for bones but also to describe the rigid supports used in dental molds or orthodontic treatments.
- The diminutive ending in tablilla functions similarly to the English suffix '-let' in 'tablet', emphasizing the small and thin nature of the object.
Examples in context
- Necesito una férula para inmovilizar el brazoI need a splint to immobilize the arm
- Necesitamos una férula para el brazo.We need a splint for the arm.
- La férula de madera es muy dura.The wooden splint is very hard.
- El médico puso una férula en su pierna.The doctor put a splint on her leg.
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are at the clinic.
- DanielElena, ¿tienes que usar una férula?Elena, do you have to use a splint?
- ElenaSí, Daniel, me lastimé la muñeca.Yes, Daniel, I hurt my wrist.
- Daniel¿Te molesta mucho la férula?Does the splint bother you a lot?
- ElenaUn poco, pero es necesaria.A little, but it is necessary.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “splint” translations and entries férula, tablilla, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries férula, tablilla, CC BY-SA 4.0.
