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freno means brake — a common term in Travel Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: January 15, 2026

✈️ Travel Spanish

freno

noun • /[FRE-no]/

brake

Example:

El freno no responde bien.

The brake isn’t working well.

🧠 What does freno mean?

The word freno refers to the mechanism used to slow down or stop a vehicle, such as a car, bicycle, or train. It is a crucial safety component that allows the driver or rider to control the speed and halt the movement of their transport. Beyond its literal meaning related to vehicles, freno can also be used metaphorically to signify a restraint, a check, or a limiting factor that prevents something from progressing or happening freely.

📚 Extra examples

  • El conductor pisó el freno de emergencia.
    The driver stepped on the emergency brake.
  • Necesito revisar los frenos de mi bicicleta antes del viaje.
    I need to check my bicycle's brakes before the trip.
  • La falta de fondos supuso un freno para el proyecto.
    The lack of funds was a brake on the project.
  • Poner freno a la inflación es una prioridad.
    Putting a brake on inflation is a priority.

💡 Did You Know?

The origin of the word 'freno' can be traced back to the Latin word 'frenum', meaning 'bridle', which was used to control a horse. This connection highlights the original concept of control and restraint inherent in the word.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "freno"

Synonyms: stop, halt, check, restraint, impediment
Opposites: acelerador, aceleración, progreso, avance

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'brake' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'brake' is freno.
How do you pronounce 'freno' in Spanish?
Freno is pronounced FRAY-noh. The 'f' is like the English 'f', the 'r' is a rolled 'r' if possible, the 'e' is like the 'e' in 'bet', the 'n' is like the English 'n', and the 'o' is like the 'o' in 'go'.
How do you use 'freno' in a sentence?
Freno is typically used as a noun. For example, 'El freno del coche no funciona.' (The car's brake isn't working.) It can also be used in phrases like 'poner freno a algo' (to put a brake on something).
What is the English translation of 'freno'?
The most common English translation of 'freno' is 'brake'.
Does 'freno' change for gender or number?
Yes, freno is a masculine noun. In its plural form, it becomes frenos, meaning 'brakes'.
Is 'freno' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, freno is a very common word, especially when discussing vehicles or transportation. Its metaphorical uses are also prevalent in general conversation.
Does 'freno' have slang or double meanings?
While its primary meaning is literal, the metaphorical use of freno as a 'restraint' or 'check' can sometimes be interpreted with a sense of limitation or impediment, which might be considered a subtle double meaning depending on the context.
Is 'freno' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning of freno remains consistent across Spain and Latin America. Regional dialects may have specific idioms or related terms for braking systems, but 'freno' itself is universally understood for brakes.

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