acero inoxidable
/aˌθeɾo inoɡsiˈdable/masculine
The English phrase "stainless steel" is translated into Spanish as acero inoxidable.
acero inoxidable is a masculine noun used to describe a corrosion-free ferrous alloy.
Meaning: corrosion-free ferrous alloy (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is a literal translation: acero means "steel" and inoxidable means "non-oxidizable" or "stainless".
How does it change in a sentence?
Because acero is a masculine noun, you must use the masculine definite article el (e.g., el acero inoxidable). While the adjective inoxidable remains the same in both masculine and feminine forms, the plural form of the phrase is aceros inoxidables.
How do you pronounce it?
/aˌθeɾo inoɡsiˈdable/
Did you know?
- In Spanish, inoxidable is not only used for steel but can describe any material that does not rust. For example, a person's determination or a legacy can be metaphorically described as inoxidable to mean it is timeless and unchanging.
- The Spanish word acero shares an ancient root with the English word 'acute'. Both originate from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₂eḱ-, which referred to something sharp or pointed.
- While acero inoxidable refers to the material, Spanish speakers often use the phrase acero quirúrgico to specify 'surgical steel'. This describes a high-grade version of the alloy used in medical implants and instruments.
Examples in context
- El acero inoxidable es brillante.Stainless steel is shiny.This sentence is useful for describing the appearance of acero inoxidable.Tatoeba #12379075 by carlosalberto, translation #12378905 by ddnktr
- ¿Dónde puedo comprar una nevera de acero inoxidable?Where can I buy a stainless steel refrigerator?
- Necesitamos cubiertos de acero inoxidable.We need stainless steel cutlery.
- El fregadero es de acero inoxidable.The sink is made of stainless steel.
Example conversation
Maria and Daniel are shopping for kitchenware.
- MaríaMira este juego de acero inoxidable.Look at this stainless steel set.
- DanielSe ve muy resistente, María.It looks very durable, Maria.
- MaríaSí, el acero inoxidable dura mucho tiempo.Yes, stainless steel lasts a long time.
- DanielVamos a comprarlo entonces.Let's buy it then.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “stainless steel” translations and entries acero inoxidable, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries acero, inoxidable, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
