noun

el lavavajillas

dishwasher

Aparato o producto que se usa para limpiar platos, vasos y cubiertos de forma fácil y rápida.

Definition & meaning

The word lavavajillas refers to a machine designed to wash and clean dishes, cutlery, glasses, and other kitchen utensils automatically.

It can refer to:

  1. The appliance itself: A dishwasher.
  2. The detergent: Specifically, the liquid or tablets used to clean dishes in such a machine or by hand.

Grammar & Word origin

The word is a compound noun formed by two distinct parts:

  • Lava: The third-person singular present indicative form of the verb lavar (to wash).
  • Vajillas: The plural form of vajilla (dishes or dinnerware).

Grammatically, it is an invariable noun. The singular and plural forms are identical, though it is usually accompanied by the article (e.g., el lavavajillas for singular, los lavavajillas for plural).

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • Lavaplatos : This is the most common synonym, used interchangeably to describe both the machine and the cleaning liquid.
  • Fregaplatos : Often used in Spain to refer to the machine or the action of washing dishes.

Antonyms: There are no direct antonyms for this word, as it describes a specific mechanical object or cleaning substance.

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Examples

El lavavajillas está lleno, así que no puedo usarlo ahora.noun

The dishwasher is full, so I can't use it now.

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