vs
QUICK ANSWER
"Derrota" is a form of "derrota", a noun which is often translated as "defeat". "Derrotar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to defeat". Learn more about the difference between "derrotar" and "derrota" below.
derrotar()
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
a. to defeat (an army or team)
El equipo logró derrotar a su rival.The team managed to defeat their rival.
la derrota()
A feminine noun is almost always used with feminine articles and adjectives (e.g., la mujer bonita, la luna llena).
1. (loss)
a. defeat
El equipo sufrió su primera derrota en su quinto partido.The team suffered its first defeat on their fifth game.
2. (nautical)
a. course
Tenemos que ajustar la derrota para evitar los icebergs.We need to adjust our course in order to avoid the icebergs.