Getting to know a new language, exactly as it is the case with a new person, entails an exciting adventure: discovering all the singularities that make it unique and memorable. The Spanish language, the world’s second most spoken native language, is one of the Romance languages (together with Portuguese, French, Italian and Romanian).

According to lingvist it originated in the Iberian Peninsula as a dialect of spoken or “vulgar” Latin, and the version that we consider most popular today is called “castellano”.

Full of flavour and energy -just like Latin American music- the Spanish language has some words that express so much, even though they cannot be translated into English. They are made up of beautiful sounds and lovely definitions. Are you ready? ¡Vamos!

Siesta /’sjes ta/

This one might be the most widely known. It is a short nap in the afternoon, usually after lunch. In some small cities and villages across Latin America (and Spain), businesses close around noon until three o’clock for a pause and a power nap.

Estrenar /es tre ‘nar/

It means wearing or using something for the first time. It can be used regarding any occasion but in many countries, this activity is most common on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve. It is considered good luck and true tradition to attract abundance to wear new clothes on those dates.

Sobremesa /so βre ‘me sa/

It’s that lovely time after a meal when people can engage in pleasant conversation with family or friends. It can last over an hour and provides a perfect opportunity to catch up and connect with your loved ones.  It is also the drink that you have after lunch, at least in Colombia.

Madrugar /ma ðru ‘ɣar/

This one is not as pleasant, but useful all the same. In just one verb, Spanish speaking people express the action of waking up early. It’s usually related to working hard and taking up responsibilities.

Trasnochar /tran z no ‘tʃar/

If the previous word were the sun, this one would certainly be the moon. It’s also a verb and it means to stay up late. It’s more related to the act of going out and partying, but -sadly- it can also be experienced while working.

Did you know all of these words and their meanings? Which ones were new to you? Would you like to learn more Spanish online? Let us know your comments, we’ll be happy to help you out.

Learn Spanish with us https://learningjewel.com/spanish-lessons/