Noun
/θeˈniθas/ (in Spain) or /seˈnizas/ (in Latin America)
The word "cenizas" refers to the fine, powdery residue that remains after the combustion of a substance, particularly organic material. In a more metaphorical sense, it can symbolize loss or something that has been destroyed. The term is used frequently in both oral and written contexts, especially in discussions related to fire, destruction, and even emotions like grief or mourning.
Las cenizas del fuego todavía humeaban en la chimenea.
The ashes from the fire were still smoldering in the fireplace.
Después de la explosión, solo quedaron cenizas.
After the explosion, only ashes remained.
Recogí las cenizas de mi abuelo para esparcirlas en el lugar que él amaba.
I collected my grandfather's ashes to scatter them in the place he loved.
The term "cenizas" is not extensively used in idiomatic expressions, but it carries significant metaphorical weight in language. Here are a few contexts in which it may appear:
De las cenizas renace el fuego.
From the ashes, fire is reborn.
This expression conveys the idea of rebirth and transformation after destruction.
Lo que queda son cenizas.
What remains are ashes.
This phrase can imply a sense of loss or that something once significant has been reduced to nothing.
Entre cenizas y sueños.
Between ashes and dreams.
This phrase might denote a state of nostalgia or yearning, reflecting a blend of loss and hope.
The word "cenizas" originates from the Latin "cĕnĭsa", which referred to ashes in various forms. Its evolution through the Romance languages has maintained this connection to remnants after burning.
Synonyms: - Residuos (residues) - Polvo (dust)
Antonyms: - Fuego (fire) - Luz (light)