el altavoz

Definition & meaning

The word altavoz refers to a device that converts electrical signals into sound; in English, this is a loudspeaker or speaker. It is the component used in audio systems, phones, and public address systems to reproduce voice or music at a higher volume.

Additionally, in certain contexts, it can be used figuratively to refer to a person, organization, or media outlet that acts as a mouthpiece or a medium to amplify or propagate specific ideas, opinions, or information to a large audience.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammatically, altavoz is a masculine noun. Its plural form is altavoces.

Etymologically, it is a compound word formed by:

• Alto: meaning "high" or "loud."
• Voz: meaning "voice."

Literally, it translates to "high voice" or "loud voice," reflecting its primary function of amplifying sound.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• Parlante ↗ (Commonly used in Latin America for speaker).
• Altisonante ↗ (Used in literary contexts for loud or high-sounding speech).
• Bocina ↗ (Often refers to a horn or a speaker system).
• Megáfono ↗ (Specifically a megaphone).

Antonyms:

• Micrófono ↗ (While not a direct opposite in function, it is the functional counterpart, as it converts sound into electrical signals rather than the other way around).