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

Part of Speech

Verb

Phonetic Transcription

/bat̪iɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To beat
• To whip
• To stir
• To froth
• To defeat

Meaning and Usage

The verb "batir" generally means to beat or whip something, especially in a culinary context where it refers to mixing ingredients vigorously. It can also mean to defeat an opponent in a competition or a military context. In Spanish, "batir" is widely used to describe actions involving mixing or breaking down a substance. The frequency of use is relatively high, especially in oral contexts, such as cooking discussions.

Example Sentences

1. "Voy a batir los huevos para la tortilla."

2. "I am going to beat the eggs for the omelet."

3. "El chef batió la crema hasta que estuvo esponjosa."

4. "The chef whipped the cream until it was fluffy."

Idiomatic Expressions

"Batir" is often part of several idiomatic expressions in the Spanish language. Here are some examples:

1. "Batir récords."
2. "To break records."
3. Example: "El atleta logró batir récords en los últimos Juegos Olímpicos."

4. "The athlete managed to break records at the last Olympic Games."

5. "Batir las alas."

6. "To flap one's wings; to become independent or to begin a new phase."
7. Example: "Al finalizar la universidad, decidí batir las alas y viajar por el mundo."

8. "After finishing university, I decided to flap my wings and travel the world."

9. "Batir la cabeza contra la pared."

10. "To bang one's head against the wall; to feel frustrated."
11. Example: "Estuve tratando de resolver el problema por horas, y sólo me sentí como si estaba batiendo la cabeza contra la pared."
12. "I was trying to solve the problem for hours, and I just felt like I was banging my head against the wall."

Etymology

The word "batir" comes from the Latin root "battĕre", which means "to beat" or "to strike". This reflects its primary usage relating to mixing or striking actions.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• Golpear (to hit)
• Mezclar (to mix)

• Revolver (to stir)

• Antonyms:

• Calmantar (to calm)
• Aplastar (to crush)

In summary, "batir" is a versatile verb in Spanish with strong culinary, competitive, and colloquial connotations, featuring prominently in idiomatic expressions and functional usage in daily conversation.