fieles

Fieles is the plural form of the Spanish adjective fiel, meaning loyal or faithful. As a noun, it is used to refer to people who are believers or adherents within a religious community, especially Christians, and commonly appears in phrases such as los fieles. The plural fieles is used for both masculine and feminine referents.

Etymology: The term derives from Latin fidelis, from fides, meaning faith or trust. In Spanish, the sense evolved from “loyal” or “devoted” to include “believer” or “member of a religious community.”

Usage: In religious contexts, los fieles denotes members of a church or congregation and can be used in liturgical language or church communications. The phrase the faithful is common in English-language Bible translations and other religious writings, translated as los fieles or simply fieles depending on the text.

Regional and linguistic notes: In other Iberian languages, the equivalent term is fiéis in Portuguese; similar forms appear across Catholic and Protestant writings in the Spanish-speaking world. The word appears in canonical texts and hymns.

See also: fidelity, fidelidad, faithful.