noun

el mote

nickname

The Spanish word "mote" generally has two main meanings:

1. Nickname or Sobriquet

  • Meaning: It refers to a nickname or an informal name that is given to someone, often based on a characteristic, habit, or some anecdotal reason.
  • Example: Su mote en la escuela era "El Lobo" ("His nickname at school was 'The Wolf'").
  • Synonyms: apodo, sobrenombre, alias.
  • Antonyms: nombre verdadero, nombre real (real/given name).

2. Small Grain or Kernel (Regional/Contextual)

  • Meaning: In some Spanish-speaking regions, especially in Latin America, "mote" designates small grains of cereals or legumes, like hominy (processed corn kernels).
  • Example: En algunas comidas tradicionales sirven mote como acompañamiento ("In some traditional meals, mote is served as a side dish").
  • This sense is more regional and culinary.
  • Synonyms: grano, cereal (generically), but usually "mote" is specific.
  • Antonyms: There is no direct antonym in this context; it's a noun for a food item.

Summary

MeaningDescriptionSynonymsAntonyms
Nickname or SobriquetInformal or familiar name for a personapodo, sobrenombre, aliasnombre verdadero, nombre real
Small grain or kernelProcessed cereal grain used in cooking (regional)——

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Examples

¿Por qué le pusieron ese mote tan raro al profesor?noun

Why did they give the professor that strange nickname?

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