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

📅 Published: March 12, 2026

🩺 Medical Spanish

piel

noun • /[PYEL]/

skin

Example:

La piel protege el cuerpo.

The skin protects the body.

🧠 What does piel mean?

The outer protective layer of the body of humans and animals, consisting of the epidermis and dermis. In a medical context, 'piel' is fundamental for discussing conditions affecting the integumentary system, such as rashes, wounds, infections, and dermatological issues. It refers to the organ that covers the entire surface of the body.

📚 Extra examples

  • El dermatólogo examinó la piel del paciente en busca de lunares sospechosos.
    The dermatologist examined the patient's skin for suspicious moles.
  • La exposición prolongada al sol puede dañar la piel.
    Prolonged sun exposure can damage the skin.
  • Tiene una infección en la piel que requiere tratamiento.
    He has a skin infection that requires treatment.
  • Es importante hidratar la piel seca.
    It is important to moisturize dry skin.
  • La quemadura solar afectó la piel de sus hombros.
    The sunburn affected the skin on his shoulders.

💡 Did You Know?

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, acting as a protective barrier against pathogens, temperature changes, and physical injury. Its health is often an indicator of overall well-being.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "piel"

Synonyms: cutis

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'skin' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'skin' is 'piel'.
How do you pronounce 'piel' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'piel' is /pjɛl/. The 'p' is pronounced as in English 'pen', followed by a sound similar to the 'ye' in 'yes', and ending with an 'l' sound. The 'ie' is a diphthong, a single syllable sound.
How do you use 'piel' in a sentence?
'Piel' is used in sentences when referring to the body's outer covering, its conditions, or treatments related to it. For example, 'la piel está seca' (the skin is dry) or 'una enfermedad de la piel' (a skin disease).
What is the English translation of 'piel'?
The English translation of 'piel' is 'skin'.
Does 'piel' change for gender or number?
'Piel' is a feminine noun. It does not change for gender, as it refers to the skin itself. In the plural form, it becomes 'pieles', which can refer to multiple layers of skin or animal pelts, though 'pieles' is more commonly used for furs.
Is 'piel' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'piel' is a very common word used in everyday Spanish when discussing personal appearance, health, and various environmental effects on the body.
Does 'piel' have slang or double meanings?
While 'piel' primarily means 'skin', in some informal contexts, 'tener buena piel' can metaphorically refer to someone having good luck or being lucky. However, its primary and most frequent use is literal.
Is 'piel' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'piel' are consistent in both Spain and Latin America when referring to the skin. Regional variations might occur in idioms or specific expressions, but the core meaning remains the same.

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