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noun

el pintxo

pintxo

Definition & meaning

A pintxo is a small snack, typically served in bars in the Basque Country and parts of northern Spain. It is traditionally a small slice of bread topped with various ingredients, such as cheese, seafood, tortilla, or cured meats, all held together by a toothpick.

Unlike a standard tapa, which is often a small portion of a larger dish, a pintxo is usually an elaborate, individual portion designed to be eaten in one or two bites. The name comes from the toothpick used to "spike" (pinchar) the food to the bread.

Grammar & Word origin

  • Grammar: It is a masculine noun (el pintxo). The plural form is pintxos.
  • Origin: The word is derived from the Spanish verb pinchar (to prick or spike). It is the Basque spelling of the Spanish word pincho. In Basque, the 'tx' sound represents a 'ch' sound.

Synonyms & antonyms

  • Synonyms:

    • pincho (the standard Spanish spelling)
    • tapa (a broader term for a small appetizer)
    • aperitivo (an appetizer or snack)
    • bocadito (a small bite-sized piece)

  • Antonyms:

    • plato principal (main course)
    • banquete (a large feast or meal)

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Examples

Comimos un pintxo delicioso en un pequeño bar del centro.noun

We ate a delicious pintxo in a small downtown bar.

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