Criar (en. Breed)

/kɾiaɾ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
verb
To provide the necessary care for the development of a living being.
The mother raises her children with love and dedication.
La madre cría a sus hijos con amor y dedicación.
To promote the growth of something.
The farmer raises flowers in his garden.
El agricultor cría flores en su jardín.
To increase the number of animals in a livestock farm.
They raise dairy cows on the farm.
En la granja crían vacas lecheras.

Etymology

From Latin 'creare', which means to produce, to bring to life.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to raise with love
To educate and care for someone affectionately.
criar con amor
to raise in a hurry
To educate someone in a rushed and undedicated manner.
criar a la carrera

Related Words

education
The process of teaching and learning.
educación
development
The process of growth and progress.
desarrollo
care
Attention and protection towards someone or something.
cuidado

Slang Meanings

To raise on the streets
Many young people grew up raising on the streets, learning to survive.
Muchos jóvenes crecieron criando en la calle, aprendiendo a sobrevivir.
To raise mice
His parents always said he raised mice because he was so messy.
Sus padres siempre decían que criaba ratones por lo desordenado que era.