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derrame means effusion / stroke — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: October 28, 2025

🩺 Medical Spanish

derrame

noun • /[deh-RAH-meh]/

effusion / stroke

Example:

Sufrió un derrame cerebral hace un año.

He had a stroke a year ago.

🧠 What does derrame mean?

The word 'derrame' in Spanish primarily translates to 'effusion' or 'spill' in a medical context, often referring to the leakage of fluid. It is most commonly used to describe a 'stroke' (derrame cerebral). It can also refer to other types of effusion, such as a pleural effusion (derrame pleural) or pericardial effusion (derrame pericárdico). Outside of medicine, 'derrame' can also mean 'spill' or 'outpouring', such as an oil spill (derrame de petróleo).

📚 Extra examples

  • El paciente sufrió un derrame cerebral.
    The patient suffered a stroke.
  • Hubo un derrame de petróleo en el Golfo.
    There was an oil spill in the Gulf.
  • El médico diagnosticó un derrame pleural.
    The doctor diagnosed a pleural effusion.
  • Tiene un pequeño derrame pericárdico.
    He has a small pericardial effusion.
  • ¡Cuidado con ese derrame de café!
    Careful with that coffee spill!

💡 Did You Know?

While 'derrame cerebral' is the most common way to say 'stroke', you might also hear 'accidente cerebrovascular' (ACV) which is a more formal, medical term.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "derrame"

Synonyms: vertido, fuga, extravasación

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'effusion / stroke' in Spanish?
The most common translation of 'effusion' and 'stroke' in a medical context is 'derrame'. However, context is key, and other words like 'vertido' (spill, discharge) might be used in non-medical situations.
How do you pronounce 'derrame' in Spanish?
It's pronounced deh-RAH-meh, with the stress on the second syllable.
How do you use 'derrame' in a sentence?
Examples include: 'Mi abuelo tuvo un derrame cerebral.' (My grandfather had a stroke.) or 'El derrame de productos químicos contaminó el río.' (The chemical spill polluted the river.).
What is the English translation of 'derrame'?
In a medical context, 'derrame' usually translates to 'effusion' or 'stroke'. More generally, it can mean 'spill', 'outpouring', or 'overflow'.
Does 'derrame' change for gender or number?
No, 'derrame' stays the same regardless of gender. For plural, you simply add an 's': 'derrames'.
Is 'derrame' common in everyday Spanish?
While the word itself isn't extremely common in casual conversation, it's widely understood and used when discussing medical issues or accidents involving spills.
Does 'derrame' have slang or double meanings?
Not typically. It's a fairly straightforward word. However, figuratively, it can sometimes be used to describe an outpouring of emotions, though this is less common.
Is 'derrame' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'derrame' are generally consistent across both Spain and Latin America.

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