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

📅 Published: November 19, 2025

✈️ Travel Spanish

puerta

noun • /[PUER-ta]/

gate

Example:

La puerta de embarque es la 22.

The boarding gate is 22.

🧠 What does puerta mean?

The Spanish word 'puerta' refers to a means of entry or exit, typically a hinged or sliding barrier that opens and closes to allow passage through an opening in a wall, fence, or vehicle. While it most commonly translates to 'door,' in certain contexts, particularly when referring to an entrance to a property or a large opening in a structure, it can also mean 'gate.' Understanding this nuance is helpful for travelers navigating different environments.

📚 Extra examples

  • Tengo que abrir la puerta para que entre el perro.
    I have to open the door for the dog to come in.
  • Por favor, cierra la puerta del balcón, hace frío.
    Please close the balcony door, it's cold.
  • La puerta principal del castillo es impresionante.
    The main gate of the castle is impressive.
  • El conductor abrió la puerta del autobús.
    The driver opened the bus door.
  • Hay una puerta secreta detrás de la librería.
    There is a secret door behind the bookshelf.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'puerta' shares a common linguistic root with the English word 'portal,' both deriving from the Latin word 'porta,' meaning 'gate' or 'door.' This connection highlights a shared history in Indo-European languages.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "puerta"

Synonyms: portón, verja, entrada, acceso
Opposites: pared, muro

🔍 See more travel spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'door' in Spanish?
The most common translation for 'door' in Spanish is 'puerta'.
How do you pronounce 'puerta' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'puerta' is roughly 'PWEHR-tah', with a rolled 'r' sound and emphasis on the first syllable.
How do you use 'puerta' in a sentence?
'Puerta' is used similarly to 'door' or 'gate' in English. For example, 'La puerta está abierta' means 'The door is open.'
What is the English translation of 'puerta'?
The primary English translation of 'puerta' is 'door.' It can also be translated as 'gate' in contexts involving entrances to properties or larger openings.
Does 'puerta' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'puerta' is a feminine noun. In the plural form, it becomes 'puertas'.
Is 'puerta' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'puerta' is a very common and essential word used daily in Spanish.
Does 'puerta' have slang or double meanings?
While 'puerta' itself is a straightforward word, idiomatic expressions might use it. For example, 'dar calabazas' (to give pumpkins) means to reject someone, but it's not directly related to the word 'puerta' itself.
Is 'puerta' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The meaning and usage of 'puerta' are generally consistent across Spain and Latin America. Regional variations might exist in idiomatic phrases rather than the core meaning of the word.

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