Compañera is a noun in Spanish that means "companion" or "partner." It is commonly used to refer to a female friend, partner, or colleague. The word is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, and its frequency of use is moderate.
Examples:
Mi compañera de trabajo es muy eficiente.
Translation: My work partner is very efficient.
Elena ha sido mi fiel compañera durante años.
Translation: Elena has been my faithful companion for years.
Idiomatic expressions:
Compañera is part of some common idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are a few examples:
Mi sombra y mi compañera
Translation: My shadow and my companion (meaning someone who is always present and by your side).
Compañera de viaje
Translation: Traveling companion (someone you share trips or experiences with).
Etymology:
The word compañera comes from the Latin companio/companionis, which originated from com- (with) and panis (bread). The original meaning was someone with whom you shared bread, highlighting closeness and camaraderie.