caducar

Word: caducar

Meaning: The Spanish verb "caducar" means to expire, to become invalid or no longer valid, to lapse, or to cease legally or officially. It is commonly used when referring to things that have an expiration date such as food, documents, contracts, or legal terms.

Explanation:

• The verb caducar typically applies in contexts where something ceases to be valid due to the passage of time.

• For example:

  • A food product caduca when it goes past its expiration date (best before date).
  • A passport or identification card caduca when it is no longer legally valid.
  • A right, contract, or agreement caduca when the stipulated term or period ends.

Etymology:

• The verb comes from the Latin caducare, meaning "to fall down," or "to fall" which metaphorically transfers to "the ending" or "expiration," symbolizing something coming to an end or falling away.

Synonyms:

• expirar (to expire)
• vencer (to come to an end, expire)
• extinguirse (to extinguish, cease)

Antonyms:

• validar (to validate)
• renovar (to renew)
• prorrogar (to extend, prolong)

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Example sentences:

• La leche caduca mañana, así que debes consumirla hoy.
  The milk expires tomorrow, so you should consume it today.

• Mi pasaporte caduca el próximo mes y necesito renovarlo.
  My passport expires next month, and I need to renew it.

• El contrato caducó después de dos años.
  The contract expired after two years.

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In summary, "caducar" is a verb emphasizing that something has reached its expiration point and is no longer valid or usable due to time limitations.