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cartera means wallet — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 9, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

cartera

noun • /[kar-TEH-rah]/

wallet

Example:

Perdí mi cartera ayer.

I lost my wallet yesterday.

🧠 What does cartera mean?

A cartera is a small, flat case, typically made of leather or a similar material, used to hold money, credit cards, identification, and other important documents. It is commonly carried in a pocket or a bag. While 'wallet' is the most frequent translation, 'cartera' can also refer to a portfolio or a folder, depending on the context, especially in more formal or academic settings.

📚 Extra examples

  • Perdí mi cartera con todas mis tarjetas y algo de dinero.
    I lost my wallet with all my cards and some money.
  • El cartero dejó el paquete en la cartera de la casa.
    The mail carrier left the package in the house's mailbox.
  • Ella lleva sus documentos importantes en una cartera de mano.
    She carries her important documents in a handbag.
  • Guarda las fotos de la familia en esa vieja cartera de cuero.
    He keeps the family photos in that old leather wallet.
  • El estudiante presentó su cartera de trabajos para la admisión.
    The student presented their portfolio of work for admission.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'cartera' shares roots with 'carro' (car) and 'carta' (letter), all ultimately deriving from Latin words related to carrying or moving things.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "cartera"

Synonyms: billetera, portafolio, portafolios, maletín

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'wallet' in Spanish?
The most common Spanish translation for 'wallet' is cartera.
How do you pronounce 'cartera' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is kah-r-TEH-rah. The 'c' has a 'k' sound, the 'r' is rolled slightly, and the 't' is soft.
How do you use 'cartera' in a sentence?
It is used in sentences describing the object itself or its contents. For example, 'Necesito comprar una cartera nueva' (I need to buy a new wallet) or 'Mi cartera está en mi bolsillo derecho' (My wallet is in my right pocket).
What is the English translation of 'cartera'?
The primary English translation of 'cartera' is 'wallet'. It can also mean 'portfolio' or 'briefcase' in certain contexts.
Does 'cartera' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'cartera' is a feminine noun. In the plural, it becomes 'carteras'.
Is 'cartera' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'cartera' is a very common word used frequently in everyday Spanish to refer to a wallet.
Does 'cartera' have slang or double meanings?
While 'cartera' primarily means 'wallet', in some contexts, it can refer to a 'portfolio' of work or a 'briefcase'. It can also be used metaphorically for someone's responsibilities or role, as in 'la cartera del director' (the director's portfolio or responsibilities). However, it does not typically have slang meanings in the way some other words might.
Is 'cartera' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The primary meaning of 'cartera' as 'wallet' is understood universally across Spanish-speaking countries. Regional variations might exist for specific types of bags or briefcases, but for the common object used to hold money and cards, 'cartera' is the standard term.

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