Cartero refers to a person who delivers mail. It is commonly used in everyday language to denote someone whose job is to sort and deliver letters and packages to people's homes or businesses. The term is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, especially in conversations related to postal services, mail delivery, and communication.
Example Sentences
El cartero llegó temprano a entregar las cartas.
The postman arrived early to deliver the letters.
Siempre saludo al cartero cuando lo veo en la calle.
I always greet the mailman when I see him on the street.
Mi amigo trabaja como cartero en nuestra ciudad.
My friend works as a postman in our city.
Idiomatic Expressions
While "cartero" does not have many direct idiomatic expressions, it can be used in some common phrases or contexts to convey ideas related to communication or delivery.
Ser como el cartero
Meaning: To be a person who delivers news or messages.
Example: Siempre me cuenta los chismes del barrio; es como el cartero.
He always tells me the neighborhood gossip; he's like the postman.
El cartero llama dos veces
Meaning: A reference to a situation where an opportunity or message requires attention before it disappears.
Example: Puedes quejarte, pero recuerda que el cartero llama dos veces.
You can complain, but remember that the postman calls twice.
Esperar al cartero
Meaning: To wait impatiently for news or important communication.
Example: He estado esperando al cartero toda la semana para que llegue la carta.
I've been waiting for the postman all week for the letter to arrive.
Etymology
The word "cartero" comes from the Latin word "cartularius," which means "one who has to do with items written on cards or papers." It evolved through usage in the Spanish language to specifically refer to a postal worker.
Synonyms
Mensajero (messenger)
Repartidor de correo (mail carrier)
Antonyms
Cliente del correo (customer of the post office)
Destinatario (recipient)
Overall, "cartero" is a prominent term in discussions about postal services and communication, with its significance reinforcing the essential role that mail delivery plays in everyday life.