Definition
Physical or mental power; the strength or energy needed to do something.
Example
Necesitas mucha fuerza para mover esa caja.
Show translation
You need a lot of strength to move that box.
Etymology
From Latin *fortia*, the nominalized neuter plural of *fortis* ("strong, brave"). The Latin root evolved through Vulgar Latin, where *fortia* was reanalyzed as a feminine singular noun, giving Old Spanish *fuerça* and eventually modern *fuerza*. The same root gives English "fort," "fortify," and "force."
Cultural note
*Fuerza* carries strong emotional weight in Spanish-speaking cultures beyond its literal meaning. The exclamation "¡Fuerza!" — literally "Strength!" — is a common rallying cry of encouragement, equivalent to "Hang in there!" or "You've got this!" It is widely used on social media, at sporting events, and as a word of comfort during hard times. In Spain, "dar fuerza" to someone means to give them moral support.