Adjective
/ʧaˈpaðo/
"Chapado" in Spanish generally refers to something that has been plated or coated with a thin layer of another material, often metal, to enhance its appearance or durability. It can also imply something that is lined, providing additional context to its physical attributes. The word is often used in both technical fields, such as metallurgy and jewelry, as well as in more common conversational contexts.
In terms of frequency, "chapado" is more commonly used in written texts, especially in technical descriptions, although you might encounter it in oral speech when discussing related subjects.
La joyería de oro chapado es más económica que la de oro sólido.
Gold-plated jewelry is more affordable than solid gold.
Ellos compraron una mesa de madera chapada en caoba.
They bought a wooden table lined with mahogany.
"Chapado" is not only used in its literal meaning but can also appear in various idiomatic expressions or contexts. Here are some idiomatic uses:
Chapado a la antigua
Refers to someone who is "old-fashioned" or conservative in their views.
Ejemplo: Ella es chapada a la antigua y no le gusta usar tecnología moderna.
She is old-fashioned and doesn’t like using modern technology.
Estar chapado
Can imply someone is tough or resilient, often used in the context of physical endurance.
Ejemplo: A pesar de su edad, está chapado y puede correr maratones.
Despite his age, he is tough and can run marathons.
Estar chapado con algo
To be lined or covered with something, usually in a metaphorical sense.
Ejemplo: Su mente está chapada con ideas preconcebidas que no puede cambiar.
His mind is lined with preconceived notions that he can't change.
The word "chapado" comes from the verb "chapar," which means to plate or coat something, likely drawing from the Old Spanish influence and related to similar verbs in other Latin-derived languages. It is connected to the word "chapar" that refers to applying a thin layer over a base material.