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:
-
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. -
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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