Azulejo is a noun in Spanish.
/aθuˈlexo/ (in Spain) or /asuˈlexo/ (in Latin America)
The word "azulejo" refers to a small, usually square tile, traditionally made of ceramic, that is often brightly colored or decorated. In the Spanish-speaking world, azulejos are commonly used for decorative purposes, often found in architecture, flooring, and walls, especially in historical and cultural contexts.
It is more frequently used in written contexts, particularly in discussions about art, architecture, and home decor, but it can also be encountered in oral communication, especially within related topics.
The term is commonly used in regions with notable architectural styles that include azulejos, such as Spain, Portugal, and Latin American countries. Its use can be considered moderate, particularly in discussions involving design and cultural heritage.
El azulejo que eligieron para la cocina es de un hermoso color azul.
The tile they chose for the kitchen is a beautiful shade of blue.
Los azulejos en la fachada de la iglesia son una obra maestra del arte barroco.
The tiles on the facade of the church are a masterpiece of Baroque art.
Mi abuela siempre decía que los azulejos cuentan la historia de una casa.
My grandmother always said that the tiles tell the story of a house.
While the word azulejo itself may not be directly involved in well-known idiomatic expressions, the concept of azulejos is often associated with cultural and artistic traditions, which can create evocative phrases. Here are examples where azulejos reflect deeper meanings or are utilized in cultural contexts.
"Hacer azulejos" en la decoración es un arte que requiere mucha precisión.
“Making tiles” in decoration is an art that requires a lot of precision.
El viejo palacio estaba cubierto de azulejos, que contaban su rica historia.
The old palace was covered in tiles that told its rich history.
En el festival, los artistas usaron azulejos reciclados para hacer obras de arte.
At the festival, artists used recycled tiles to create artwork.
The term azulejo originates from the Arabic word "al-zulayj", which means "the polished stone." This reflects the historical influence of Moorish architecture in Spain and other regions where the use of decorative tiles became prominent.
In architectural and decorative contexts, "azulejo" embodies a rich tradition that combines functionality with artistic expression, playing a significant role in cultural identity in many Spanish-speaking countries.