Definition
Something that has just been made, bought, or experienced for the first time; not old or used before.
Example
Mañana empiezo un trabajo nuevo y estoy emocionado.
Show translation
Tomorrow I start a new job and I'm excited.
Etymology
From Latin *novus* ("new"), which also gave French *nouveau*, Italian *nuovo*, and Portuguese *novo*. The Proto-Indo-European root *\*néwos* is the same root behind English *new* and German *neu*, making it one of the most universally shared words in the Indo-European family.
Cultural note
In Spanish, *nuevo* can appear before or after the noun, and the position shifts the meaning subtly. *Un nuevo coche* often implies "another/different car" (even if not brand-new), while *un coche nuevo* more concretely means "a brand-new car." This positional nuance catches many learners off guard. The phrase *¡Feliz Año Nuevo!* ("Happy New Year!") is one of the most universally recognized uses of the word.