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

📅 Published: December 9, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

llaves

noun • /[YA-bes]/

keys

Example:

Olvidé las llaves del hotel.

I forgot the hotel keys.

🧠 What does llaves mean?

The Spanish word 'llaves' is the plural form of 'llave,' meaning 'key.' It refers to the small, often metal instruments used to operate a lock, such as those for doors, cars, or suitcases. In a travel context, understanding 'llaves' is essential for accessing accommodation, transportation, and personal belongings.

📚 Extra examples

  • Necesito las llaves de la habitación del hotel.
    I need the hotel room keys.
  • ¿Dónde dejaste las llaves del coche?
    Where did you leave the car keys?
  • Guarda bien las llaves de tu maleta.
    Keep your suitcase keys safe.
  • La recepcionista me dio las llaves.
    The receptionist gave me the keys.
  • Perdí las llaves y no puedo entrar.
    I lost the keys and cannot get in.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'llave' comes from the Latin word 'clavis', which also gave rise to the English word 'key' and the French word 'clé'. This shows a shared linguistic root for this essential item.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "llaves"

Synonyms: acceso, instrumentos, cerraduras

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'keys' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'keys' is 'llaves'.
How do you pronounce 'llaves' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'llaves' is roughly 'YAH-vess'. The 'll' sound is similar to the 'y' in 'yes', and the 'v' sound is soft, like a 'b' in some contexts. The emphasis is on the first syllable.
How do you use 'llaves' in a sentence?
'Llaves' is used to refer to multiple keys. For example, 'Necesito las llaves de la habitación' (I need the room keys).
What is the English translation of 'llaves'?
The English translation of 'llaves' is 'keys'.
Does 'llaves' change for gender or number?
'Llaves' is a feminine noun. As it is plural, it is already in its plural form. The singular form is 'llave'.
Is 'llaves' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'llaves' is a very common word used in everyday Spanish for referring to keys.
Does 'llaves' have slang or double meanings?
In standard Spanish, 'llaves' primarily means 'keys'. However, the plural noun 'llaves' can also refer to the 'faucets' or 'taps' in a bathroom or kitchen, particularly in some Latin American countries. Context is key to understanding the intended meaning.
Is 'llaves' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
While 'llaves' universally means 'keys' in both Spain and Latin America, its use to mean 'faucets' or 'taps' is more prevalent in some Latin American countries than in Spain. In Spain, 'grifos' is more commonly used for faucets.

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