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

📅 Published: April 12, 2026

🩺 Medical Spanish

gotas

noun • /[GO-tas]/

drops

Example:

Usa gotas para los ojos.

Use drops for the eyes.

🧠 What does gotas mean?

The Spanish word 'gotas' is the plural form of 'gota,' meaning 'drop.' In a medical context, 'gotas' specifically refers to liquid medication administered in small, measured amounts, typically by dropper. This includes eye drops (gotas para los ojos), ear drops (gotas para los oídos), or nasal drops (gotas nasales). It denotes a precise dosage delivered as a liquid.

📚 Extra examples

  • El médico le recetó unas gotas para aliviar la inflamación.
    The doctor prescribed some drops to alleviate the inflammation.
  • Asegúrese de seguir las instrucciones para aplicar las gotas.
    Make sure to follow the instructions for applying the drops.
  • Necesito comprar gotas para los ojos, tengo sequedad.
    I need to buy eye drops; my eyes are dry.
  • Las gotas nasales pueden ser útiles para la congestión.
    Nasal drops can be helpful for congestion.

💡 Did You Know?

The Spanish word 'gota' comes from the Latin word 'gutta,' which also means 'drop.' This connection highlights the shared linguistic roots between Spanish and Latin, which is common for many vocabulary words.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "gotas"

Synonyms: pizcas

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'drops' in Spanish?
The most common Spanish word for 'drops,' especially in a medical context, is 'gotas'.
How do you pronounce 'gotas' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'gotas' is 'GOH-tahs,' with the stress on the first syllable.
How do you use 'gotas' in a sentence?
'Gotas' is used as a plural noun. For instance, 'El paciente necesita tomar estas gotas dos veces al día' (The patient needs to take these drops twice a day).
What is the English translation of 'gotas'?
The English translation of 'gotas' is 'drops'.
Does 'gotas' change for gender or number?
'Gotas' is a plural noun. The singular form is 'gota,' which is feminine. 'Gotas' is the plural of 'gota'.
Is 'gotas' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'gotas' is common, particularly when referring to medications or liquids administered in small quantities. It is frequently used in everyday conversation related to health and well-being.
Does 'gotas' have slang or double meanings?
While 'gotas' primarily means 'drops,' in some very informal contexts, a 'gota' (singular) can metaphorically refer to a small amount of something, or even a person who is excessively annoying or bothersome (e.g., 'Es una gota que colma el vaso' - It's the straw that breaks the camel's back). However, in its medical usage, it retains its literal meaning.
Is 'gotas' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The usage of 'gotas' is generally consistent across Spain and Latin America when referring to liquid medication administered by dropper. Regional variations might exist in specific medication names or colloquial expressions, but the core meaning of 'gotas' remains the same.

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