Part of Speech

The word "cerco" is a noun in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈθeɾ.ko/ (This transcription is in Castilian Spanish. In Latin American Spanish, it may be pronounced as /ˈseɾ.ko/.)

Translation Options into English

• Fence
• Enclosure
• Hedge

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "cerco" refers primarily to a fence or enclosure, used to define an area, provide security, or contain animals. The term can also denote a hedge, especially when referring to a living boundary made of shrubs or plants.

"cerco" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, though it may be more frequent in written forms given its usage in legal or agricultural texts concerning property boundaries and land use.

Example Sentences

1. El cerco del jardín está hecho de madera.

2. The fence of the garden is made of wood.

3. Necesitamos un cerco más alto para mantener a los animales dentro.

4. We need a taller fence to keep the animals inside.

5. El cerco del campo fue dañado por la tormenta.

6. The enclosure of the field was damaged by the storm.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "cerco" does not directly form many idiomatic expressions, it can appear in phrases related to boundaries and limitations.

1. No hay cerco que no pueda ser saltado.
2. There is no fence that cannot be crossed.

3. (Meaning: There are no insurmountable obstacles; challenges can be overcome.)

4. Caer en el cerco.

5. To fall into the fence.

6. (Used to express being trapped or caught in a difficult situation.)

7. Cerrarse el cerco.

8. To close the fence.

9. (Referring to a situation where options are limited or one is being cornered.)

10. Tener un cerco de seguridad.

11. To have a security fence.
12. (Used metaphorically to describe a boundary that protects one’s interests or privacy.)

Etymology

The word "cerco" originates from the Latin word "circus," meaning "circle" or "ring." As Latin evolved into the Romance languages, terms related to circular structures transformed, giving rise to the modern usage of "cerco."

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Vallado - Cerca - Limitación

Antonyms: - Apertura (opening) - Espacio (space) - Libera (release)

In summary, "cerco" is a common term in the Spanish language signifying a physical barrier or boundary, also used metaphorically in various expressions denoting limitations or constraints.