baba (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "baba" is a noun in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/bá.βa/

Translation Options into English

1. Drool
2. Slobber
3. Slime (in certain contexts)

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "baba" primarily refers to saliva that drips from the mouth, commonly associated with mediating expressions of tiredness, severe emotional states, or excitement, particularly in children or animals. The term can also refer to slime or mucus in some contexts.

The frequency of use is moderate; it's commonly used in both spoken and written contexts, although slightly more prevalent in informal oral communication, especially among families or in casual conversations.

Example Sentences

1. El bebé está babando mientras juega.

2. The baby is drooling while playing.

3. El perro dejó baba en el suelo.

4. The dog left slobber on the floor.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Baba" is often used in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish, adding richness to the language.

1. No seas baba.

2. Don’t be stupid.

3. Estar como una baba.

4. To be a bit silly or dazed.

5. Example: Después de esa noticia, está como una baba.

   • After that news, he’s a bit dazed.

6. Hacer baba.

7. To be completely infatuated or to act affectionately like a fool, usually in the context of love.

8. Example: Cuando está con su novia, siempre hace baba.

   • When he’s with his girlfriend, he always acts like a fool.

9. (Uno) es más baba que un niño.

10. One is more gullible than a child.

11. Example: No le creas, es más baba que un niño.

    • Don’t believe him; he’s more gullible than a child.

12. Baba de caracol.

13. Snail mucus; often used in beauty products.
14. Example: La crema contiene baba de caracol para hidratar la piel.
    • The cream contains snail mucus to hydrate the skin.

Etymology

The word "baba" has its roots in the Latin term "babare," which means to drool or slobber. This Latin origin highlights its longstanding familiarity with the idea of excess saliva, which has carried over into its various meanings in modern Spanish.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Saliva - Mucosidad (mucus)

Antonyms: - Sequedad (dryness) - Seriedad (seriousness) when used in idiomatic expressions indicating a lack of foolishness or naivety.

This comprehensive overview should provide you with a rich understanding of the word "baba" in various contexts within the Spanish language.