Noun
/kiaˈɾa/
The word "cigarra" can be translated as "cicada" in English.
In the Spanish language, "cigarra" refers to a cicada, which is an insect known for its distinctive sound, especially during the summer. It is often used in both zoological contexts and cultural references. The word has a general frequency of use, especially in regions where cicadas are common, and can be found in both written and oral forms, with a slight preference for written contexts in literary works and idiomatic expressions.
La cigarra canta durante el verano.
The cicada sings during the summer.
La historia de la cigarra y la hormiga es muy conocida.
The story of the cicada and the ant is well-known.
Escuché a la cigarra mientras paseaba por el campo.
I heard the cicada while walking in the countryside.
The word "cigarra" is often used in several idiomatic expressions that convey lessons or morals, most famously in fables.
"La cigarra y la hormiga" (The cicada and the ant) - Refers to the fable in which the cicada sings and enjoys life during summer while the ant works hard to prepare for winter.
This story teaches us about the importance of hard work and preparation.
"Cigarra que canta, a la luna se levanta" - This phrase can be understood as "The cicada that sings rises to the moon," implying that those who take joy in life will be elevated in spirit.
La vida es más hermosa cuando uno disfruta de sus pequeños momentos, como dice el refrán, 'cigarra que canta, a la luna se levanta.'
Life is more beautiful when one enjoys small moments, as the saying goes, 'the cicada that sings rises to the moon.'
"No seas cigarra" - This expression means "don't be a cicada," and it is used to advise someone against being careless or lazy regarding future preparations.
En la reunión, dijeron: 'No seas cigarra, empieza a ahorrar para el futuro.'
At the meeting, they said: 'Don’t be a cicada, start saving for the future.'
The word "cigarra" comes from the Latin "cicāra," which itself derives from the Greek "kikkara." The term has been used in the Iberian Peninsula since the medieval period, maintaining its form and meaning over time.
There are no direct antonyms for "cigarra," as it refers specifically to an insect. However, in the context of folklore, "hormiga" (ant) can be seen as its opposite in the fable "La cigarra y la hormiga," representing hard work and preparation.
In conclusion, "cigarra" is a multifaceted term used across various contexts, notably in zoology and in cultural narratives. Its idiomatic expressions serve as moral lessons that are still relevant today.