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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈθe.ɪ.ba/ (in Spain) or /ˈse.ɪ.ba/ (in Latin America)

Translation Options into English

• Ceiba (not commonly translated, often refers specifically to the species of tree)
• Kapok tree (common name)

Meaning and Usage

The word "ceiba" refers to a type of tree that is prominent in tropical regions, particularly in Central America and some parts of South America. The scientific name is Ceiba pentandra, and it is notable for its large size and distinctive trunk, often swollen or buttressed at the base. The ceiba tree holds cultural significance in various Latin American countries, often regarded as a sacred tree in indigenous cultures.

In terms of linguistic frequency, "ceiba" is less common in everyday conversation but may appear more in written contexts, especially in discussions related to botany, ecology, or cultural references.

Example Sentences

1. La ceiba es un árbol que puede alcanzar hasta 70 metros de altura.
   The ceiba is a tree that can reach up to 70 meters in height.

2. En Guatemala, la ceiba es considerada un símbolo de la cultura maya.
   In Guatemala, the ceiba is considered a symbol of Maya culture.

3. Bajo la sombra de la ceiba, los niños juegan en el parque.
   Under the shade of the ceiba, children play in the park.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "ceiba" itself is not commonly used in many idiomatic expressions, it might appear in contexts referring to nature, tradition, or cultural identity. Here are some expressions in which "ceiba" can be incorporated:

1. "Bajo la ceiba de antaño se contaban historias."
   Under the ancient ceiba, stories were told.

2. "Plantando una ceiba, se asegura el futuro de la comunidad."
   Planting a ceiba ensures the future of the community.

3. "La ceiba es testigo de generaciones pasadas."
   The ceiba is a witness to past generations.

4. "Con la ceiba como su guía, el viaje comenzó."
   With the ceiba as their guide, the journey began.

Etymology

The word "ceiba" comes from the Taíno language, which was spoken by the indigenous Taíno people of the Caribbean. The Taíno term is believed to refer specifically to this type of tree, which was commonly found in their regions.

Synonyms

• Kapok (in English, specifically relates to the fibers derived from the tree)
• Silk cotton tree (another name for the same species)

Antonyms

As "ceiba" is a specific noun referring to a type of tree, it does not have direct antonyms. However, one might consider terms representing different types of trees or concepts related to non-tropical trees as indirect antonyms, such as: - Conifer (referring to cone-bearing trees) - Deciduous tree