Lavarse (en. Wash)

/laˈβaɾ.se/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
verb
Clean a part of the body using water and soap.
It is important to wash one's hands before eating.
Es importante lavarse las manos antes de comer.
Clean oneself in general, in a figurative sense.
After the discussion, he decided to wash his hands of the situation.
Después de la discusión, decidió lavarse las manos de la situación.
Prepare or dress for a special occasion.
He washed up and dressed elegantly for the party.
Se lavó y se puso elegante para la fiesta.

Etymology

The verb 'lavarse' comes from the Latin 'lavare', which means 'to wash'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

wash one's hands
Avoid responsibility for something.
lavarse las manos
wash one's face
Clean one's face with water and soap.
lavarse la cara
brush one's teeth
Clean teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
lavarse los dientes

Related Words

wash
The act of cleaning something with water and soap.
lavar
soap
A substance used for cleaning, generally in solid or liquid form.
jabón
hygiene
A set of practices aimed at maintaining good health.
higiene

Slang Meanings

To do 'laundry' with people or situations
In this office, he only comes to wash his hands with the boss.
En esta oficina solo viene a lavarse con el jefe.
To evade responsibility
You can't wash your hands like always; this time it's serious.
No puedes lavarte como siempre; esta vez es serio.