Noun
/ˈθeβɾa/ (in Spain) or /ˈseβɾa/ (in Latin America)
The word "cebra" refers to a striped, horse-like mammal that is native to Africa. Zebras are known for their distinctive black and white stripes, which serve as a form of camouflage in the wild. In Spanish, "cebra" is predominantly used in discussions about animals, nature, and wildlife. Its frequency of use is relatively moderate, being more common in written contexts such as literature, guides, and educational materials than in daily oral speech.
The zebra is a fascinating animal that lives in the African plains.
En el zoológico, los niños estaban emocionados de ver a la cebra.
At the zoo, the children were excited to see the zebra.
Las rayas de la cebra ayudan a confundir a los depredadores.
While "cebra" does not appear prominently in idiomatic expressions in the Spanish language, its distinct characteristics can inspire figurative language around ideas of uniqueness, camouflage, or blending in.
To be like a zebra in a field full of cows. (Meaning: To feel out of place.)
No seas cebra, muéstrate tal como eres.
Don’t be a zebra, show yourself as you are. (Meaning: Don’t hide your true self.)
En la reunión, él era la cebra del grupo, todos lo miraban.
The word "cebra" originates from the Latin "equiferus," which means "wild horse." Its development through Romance languages has retained its connection to equine animals, with the suffix evolving into its current form in modern Spanish.
In conclusion, "cebra" is a specific term in Spanish primarily referring to the zebra, a well-known wild animal characterized by its stripes. While it does not feature prominently in idiomatic expressions, its usage can invoke notions of standing out or being different.