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

📅 Published: February 26, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

documento

noun • /[do-ku-MEN-to]/

document

Example:

Olvidé mi documento en la recepción.

I forgot my document at the front desk.

🧠 What does documento mean?

A 'documento' is any written, printed, or digital piece of content that provides information, serves as an official record, or offers evidence. It can refer to a wide range of items, from legal contracts and identity papers to academic articles and computer files.

📚 Extra examples

  • Por favor, envíame el documento por correo electrónico.
    Please send me the document by email.
  • El abogado revisó cuidadosamente cada documento del caso.
    The lawyer carefully reviewed every document in the case.
  • Para la inscripción, se necesita un documento de identidad válido.
    For registration, a valid identity document is required.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'documento' comes from the Latin 'documentum', which originally meant 'lesson' or 'proof'. This origin highlights the primary function of a document: to provide evidence, instruction, or information.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "documento"

Synonyms: archivo, escrito, informe, papel, texto

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'document' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'document' is 'documento'.
How do you pronounce 'documento' in Spanish?
The word 'documento' is pronounced doh-koo-MEN-toh. The stress falls on the third syllable, '-men-'.
How do you use 'documento' in a sentence?
Here is an example sentence: 'Firma el documento en la última página.' (Sign the document on the last page.)
What is the English translation of 'documento'?
The English translation of 'documento' is 'document'.
Does 'documento' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'documento' is a masculine noun. Its plural form is 'documentos'. For example: 'un documento' (a document), 'los documentos' (the documents).
Is 'documento' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'documento' is a very common word used in many contexts, including work, academics, legal matters, and technology (e.g., a Word document).
Does 'documento' have slang or double meanings?
Generally, 'documento' does not have common slang or double meanings. It almost always refers to a written or digital record. However, in some informal contexts, it can be short for 'documento de identidad' (ID card).
Is 'documento' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The word 'documento' is used consistently across Spain and Latin America with the same meaning.

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