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Departamento means department — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 3, 2026

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

Departamento

noun • /[deh-par-ta-MEN-to]/

department

Example:

Trabajo en el departamento de historia.

I work in the history department.

🧠 What does Departamento mean?

The Spanish noun 'departamento' refers to a distinct division or section within a larger organization, institution, or entity. This can encompass academic departments at a university, specialized units within a company, or administrative branches of a government. In a more domestic context, it also translates to 'apartment' or 'flat', denoting a self-contained housing unit within a larger building.

📚 Extra examples

  • El departamento de física de la universidad ofrece varios cursos avanzados.
    The university's physics department offers several advanced courses.
  • Trabaja en el departamento de marketing de una importante empresa.
    He works in the marketing department of a major company.
  • Necesito mudarme a un departamento más grande el próximo mes.
    I need to move to a bigger apartment next month.
  • El departamento de recursos humanos se encarga de la contratación.
    The human resources department is in charge of hiring.
  • Vivimos en un departamento con vistas al mar.
    We live in an apartment with a sea view.

💡 Did You Know?

While 'departamento' is the most common word for 'apartment' across much of Latin America, in Spain, 'piso' is more frequently used for a flat or apartment. However, 'departamento' is still understood and used in Spain, particularly for more upscale or specific types of residences.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "Departamento"

Synonyms: área, sección, unidad, división, apartamento, piso
Opposites: individuo, totalidad, casa, vivienda unifamiliar

🔍 See more academic & exam prep words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'department' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'department' is 'departamento'.
How do you pronounce 'Departamento' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is deh-par-tah-MEN-toh. Emphasis is placed on the second to last syllable, 'men'.
How do you use 'Departamento' in a sentence?
It can be used to refer to a section of an organization, such as 'el departamento de historia' (the history department), or to a living space, such as 'un departamento nuevo' (a new apartment).
What is the English translation of 'Departamento'?
The English translations are 'department' and 'apartment' or 'flat'.
Does 'Departamento' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'departamento' is a masculine noun and changes for number. The plural form is 'departamentos'.
Is 'Departamento' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'departamento' is a very common word used in both formal and informal contexts, referring to organizational divisions and residential units.
Does 'Departamento' have slang or double meanings?
While the primary meanings are 'department' and 'apartment', context is key. In some informal settings, particularly when referring to living spaces, it is simply the standard term. There are no widespread slang or negative double meanings associated with the word itself.
Is 'Departamento' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
In Spain, 'piso' is more commonly used to refer to an apartment or flat. However, 'departamento' is understood and also used, especially in certain regions or for larger or more modern units. In most of Latin America, 'departamento' is the standard and most frequent term for an apartment or flat.

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