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tormenta means storm — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: January 25, 2026

📘 Essential Spanish

tormenta

noun • /[tor-MEN-ta]/

storm

Example:

La tormenta retrasó nuestro vuelo.

The storm delayed our flight.

🧠 What does tormenta mean?

A 'tormenta' is a meteorological disturbance characterized by strong winds, heavy rain, and often thunder and lightning. It is a feminine noun: 'la tormenta'. Figuratively, it can also refer to a violent agitation, disturbance, or a period of great difficulty or emotional upheaval.

📚 Extra examples

  • La tormenta de anoche derribó varios árboles en el parque.
    Last night's storm knocked down several trees in the park.
  • El capitán navegó con habilidad a través de la tormenta.
    The captain navigated skillfully through the storm.
  • Después de la mala noticia, se desató una tormenta de emociones en la familia.
    After the bad news, a storm of emotions was unleashed in the family.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'tormenta' is closely related to the verb 'atormentar', which means 'to torment'. This connection highlights the violent and distressing nature associated with a storm, both in the meteorological sense and in its figurative use for emotional or social turmoil.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "tormenta"

Synonyms: tempestad, borrasca, temporal, chubasco
Opposites: calma, bonanza, serenidad, tranquilidad

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'storm' in Spanish?
The most common and direct translation for 'storm' is 'tormenta'. Another related word is 'tempestad', which often implies a more violent storm, especially at sea.
How do you pronounce 'tormenta' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is 'tor-MEN-tah'. The stress falls on the second syllable, '-men-'. The 'r' is a tapped 'r' sound, and the vowels are pure and short.
How do you use 'tormenta' in a sentence?
'Tormenta' is a noun. A simple example is: 'Se acerca una tormenta eléctrica.' (An electrical storm is approaching.) It is often used with verbs like 'haber' (hay una tormenta) or 'acercarse'.
What is the English translation of 'tormenta'?
The primary English translation of 'tormenta' is 'storm'. Depending on the context, it can also translate to 'tempest' or, figuratively, 'turmoil' or 'upheaval'.
Does 'tormenta' change for gender or number?
'Tormenta' is a feminine noun, so it uses feminine articles like 'la' or 'una'. Its plural form is 'tormentas'.
Is 'tormenta' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'tormenta' is a very common word used in daily conversation, weather forecasts, and literature throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Does 'tormenta' have slang or double meanings?
While not slang, 'tormenta' has a well-established figurative meaning, referring to any intense disturbance or conflict. The expression 'una tormenta en un vaso de agua' is equivalent to the English 'a storm in a teacup'.
Is 'tormenta' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the use of 'tormenta' is consistent across Spain and Latin America for both its literal weather-related meaning and its figurative sense.

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