compresa (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Noun.

Phonetic Transcription

• /komˈpɾesa/

Translation Options into English

• Compress
• Dressing (in a medical context)
• Pad (as in sanitary pad)

Meaning and Usage

The word "compresa" refers to a type of dressing or pad that is often used in medical contexts to cover wounds, absorb blood, or protect an area of the body. In the context of menstruation, "compresa" usually refers to sanitary pads.

Frequency of Use

It is a commonly used term in both oral and written contexts but is more frequently encountered in medical settings and discussions surrounding health and hygiene.

Example Sentences

1. "La enfermera puso una compresa en la herida para detener la hemorragia."
   "The nurse put a dressing on the wound to stop the bleeding."

2. "Debes cambiarte la compresa cada pocas horas."
   "You should change your pad every few hours."

3. "Usé una compresa fría para aliviar el dolor."
   "I used a cold compress to relieve the pain."

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "compresa" is not commonly featured in many idiomatic expressions. However, it is used in specific contexts related to health and hygiene. Here are a few phrases and their meanings:

1. "Compresa caliente."
   "Hot compress."

2. Refers to a cloth soaked in hot water and used to alleviate pain or soothe injuries.

3. "Compresa fría."
   "Cold compress."

4. Used to refer to a similar cloth but soaked in cold water, often to reduce swelling or relieve pain.

5. "Poner una compresa."
   "To put on a dressing/cloth."

6. This generally refers to the action of applying a dressing to a wound in medical care.

Example Sentences from Idiomatic Expressions

1. "Después de la cirugía, el doctor recomendó una compresa caliente para ayudar a la recuperación."
   "After the surgery, the doctor recommended a hot compress to aid recovery."

2. "Mi abuela siempre usaba una compresa fría en su frente cuando tenía fiebre."
   "My grandmother always used a cold compress on her forehead when she had a fever."

3. "Es importante poner una compresa limpia para prevenir infecciones."
   "It's important to put on a clean dressing to prevent infections."

Etymology

The term "compresa" derives from the Latin word "compressa," the feminine form of "compressus," meaning "pressed together." This reflects the function of the item, which is to apply pressure to a wound or area.

Synonyms

• Dressing (in medical contexts)
• Pad (specifically for sanitary use)

Antonyms

• Desprotegido (unprotected, in the context of not covering a wound)

Overall, the word "compresa" is quite significant in both general and medical discussions within the Spanish language, mainly as a term related to personal hygiene and healthcare practices.