Lael logo

equilibrio means balance — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: January 4, 2026

🩺 Medical Spanish

equilibrio

noun • /[e-kee-LEE-breeo]/

balance

Example:

Ha perdido el equilibrio.

He lost his balance.

🧠 What does equilibrio mean?

Equilibrio refers to a state of balance, stability, or poise. In a literal sense, it describes the physical ability to maintain an upright posture without falling. Medically, it is a key function of the vestibular system in the inner ear, which helps control balance and spatial orientation. Figuratively, 'equilibrio' can describe a state of harmony or stability in various contexts, such as emotional well-being ('equilibrio emocional'), a balanced lifestyle ('equilibrio entre el trabajo y la vida personal'), or the stability of a system in fields like ecology or economics.

📚 Extra examples

  • La infección de oído afectó su sentido del equilibrio y le causaba mareos.
    The ear infection affected his sense of balance and caused him dizziness.
  • Es fundamental encontrar un equilibrio entre la dieta y el ejercicio para mantener una buena salud.
    It is essential to find a balance between diet and exercise to maintain good health.
  • El paciente tuvo que hacer fisioterapia para recuperar el equilibrio después de la cirugía.
    The patient had to do physical therapy to regain his balance after the surgery.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'equilibrio' originates from the Latin 'aequilībrium,' which is a combination of 'aequus' (equal) and 'lībra' (a balance scale). This etymology perfectly captures the concept of equal forces or weights creating stability, a principle that applies to both physics and health.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "equilibrio"

Synonyms: estabilidad, armonía, contrapeso, ponderación
Opposites: desequilibrio, inestabilidad, descompensación

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'balance' in Spanish?
The most common and direct translation for 'balance' is 'equilibrio'. While the word 'balance' is also used in Spanish, it typically refers to financial statements or a summary.
How do you pronounce 'equilibrio' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is eh-kee-LEE-bree-oh. The stress falls on the third syllable, '-li-'.
How do you use 'equilibrio' in a sentence?
It can be used to describe physical stability, such as 'perder el equilibrio' (to lose one's balance), or in a figurative sense, like 'mantener el equilibrio emocional' (to maintain emotional balance).
What is the English translation of 'equilibrio'?
The primary English translations are 'balance' and 'equilibrium'.
Does 'equilibrio' change for gender or number?
'Equilibrio' is a masculine noun. Its plural form, 'equilibrios', is used infrequently, typically in technical or scientific contexts to refer to multiple states of balance.
Is 'equilibrio' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'equilibrio' is a common word used in a wide range of contexts, from discussing physical health and activities to mental well-being and life management.
Does 'equilibrio' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'equilibrio' does not have any common slang meanings. Its meaning is consistent across both formal and informal registers, always referring to a state of balance.
Is 'equilibrio' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'equilibrio' are consistent throughout the Spanish-speaking world. There are no significant regional differences.

📱 Download the App

Get reminders · Save favorites · Share words

Lael App Logo

Lael: Spanish Word of the Day

Download on the App Store