noun

la capa

cape

Prenda de tela que cubre los hombros y la espalda, suelta por delante y sin mangas, usada para abrigar o adornar.

Word: capa

Meaning:
In Spanish, "capa" primarily means "layer" or "cloak/cape." It has two common uses:

  1. Layer:
    Refers to a single thickness or stratum of material, something laid on top of or spread over something else. For example, a layer of paint ("una capa de pintura"), layers of clothing, or geological layers in the earth.

  2. Cloak or Cape:
    A garment worn over the shoulders, typically sleeveless and fastened around the neck, often used historically or as part of a costume. For example, a magician’s cape or a cape worn for warmth or fashion.


Etymology

The word "capa" comes from Latin cappa, meaning a hooded cloak or cape, reflecting the garment sense. The use to mean "layer" likely derives metaphorically from the covering nature of a cloak.


Parts

  • Noun (feminine): la capa
  • Plural: las capas

Synonyms

  • For layer:

    • "estrato" (stratum)
    • "lobulo" (lobule, smaller biological layer)
    • "revestimiento" (coating)
  • For cape/cloak:

    • "manto" (mantle)
    • "cobertor" (covering garment)
    • "chamanto" (regional in some countries, like Chile)

Antonyms

  • For layer: there is no direct antonym, but you could consider "naked" (sin capa = without a layer).
  • For cloak/cape: again, no direct antonym; the opposite could be "without covering" or just "shirt" or "normal clothes."

Summary:
"Capa" is a versatile Spanish noun meaning either a physical layer of material/applicaton or a garment known as a cloak or cape. Context determines the meaning, but both carry the basic idea of something that covers or lies over.

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Examples

Me puse una capa para protegerme del frío.noun

I put on a cape to protect myself from the cold.

Él lleva una capa roja.noun

He is wearing a red cape.

Ella tiene una capa blanca.noun

She has a white cape.

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