Definition
To fill something up with a substance, people, or feeling; to make something full.
Example
Ella llena su vaso de agua cada mañana.
Show translation
She fills her glass with water every morning.
Etymology
From Latin *plēnāre*, derived from *plēnus* ("full"). The Latin initial *pl-* became *ll-* in Spanish through a regular sound shift (e.g., *plōrāre* → *llorar*, *plānāre* → *llanar*). Related to English "plenty" and "replenish," which share the same Latin root.
Cultural note
In Spanish, *llenar* is used both literally (filling a glass, a room) and emotionally — you'll often hear *me llenas de alegría* ("you fill me with joy") or *me llena el corazón* ("it fills my heart"). This emotional usage is very natural and common in everyday speech across all Spanish-speaking regions. Note that *llenar* is NOT the same as *rellenar* (to refill or to stuff, e.g., a form or a pastry), so watch out for that nuance.