noun

gesta

deed

Definition & meaning

The word gesta has two primary roles in Spanish depending on whether it is used as a noun or a verb form.

As a noun: It refers to a heroic feat, a great achievement, or a series of memorable deeds. Historically, it is associated with epic poetry and the legendary actions of heroes. In literature, a "cantar de gesta" refers to a medieval epic poem that narrates the exploits of a hero who represents the values of a nation or group.
As a verb form: It is a conjugation of the verb gestar . It can be the third-person singular present indicative (he/she/it develops/gestates) or the second-person singular imperative (you, develop/gestate). It refers to the biological process of pregnancy or, metaphorically, to the slow development and preparation of an idea, a project, or a social movement.

Grammar & Word origin

As a noun, gesta is feminine and singular. Its plural form is gestas . It derives from the Latin gesta, which is the neuter plural of gestus (the past participle of the verb gerere, meaning "to do" or "to carry out"). Essentially, it translates to "things done."

As a verb, gesta comes from the Latin gestare, a frequentative form of gerere, meaning "to carry" or "to bear." In modern Spanish, the verb gestar follows the regular conjugation pattern for verbs ending in "-ar".