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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/durˈmjente/

Translation Options into English

• sleeper (in the context of rail transport or nautical)
• cross tie (specifically in railroads)
• sleeping pad (in a general context for camping/sleeping equipment)

Meaning and Usage

The word "durmiente" primarily refers to a "sleeper" or "cross tie," which is a horizontal support in rail transport that maintains the integrity of the track. It can also refer to a sleeping pad or mat in more general contexts. In nautical terms, it can indicate a part of a boat or ship involved in stability or support.

In Spanish, "durmiente" is commonly used in both technical and general discussions, but it is particularly prevalent in written contexts, such as technical manuals or safety instructions in transportation industries, rather than in everyday conversation.

Example Sentences

1. Los durmientes de la vía son cruciales para la estabilidad del tren.

2. The sleepers of the track are crucial for the stability of the train.

3. He comprado un durmiente para mis campamentos en la montaña.

4. I bought a sleeping pad for my camping trips in the mountains.

5. En la astillero, los durmientes son examinado regularmente por su seguridad.

6. In the shipyard, the sleepers are regularly examined for safety.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "durmiente" does not constitute a major part of idiomatic expressions, it appears in specific technical phrases and sayings that relate to sleep or support.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. "Poner un durmiente en el sueño" se refiere a hacer algo que impida descansar adecuadamente.

2. "To put a sleeper on sleep" refers to doing something that hinders proper rest.

3. "El durmiente de la vida" se usa para describir a alguien que ignora o subestima problemas importantes.

4. "The sleeper of life" is used to describe someone who ignores or underestimates important issues.

5. "El durmiente del tren no debe desviarse" puede referirse a mantenerse en el camino correcto en la vida o los negocios.

6. "The sleeper of the train must not derail" can refer to staying on the right path in life or business.

Etymology

The word "durmiente" comes from the Spanish verb "dormir," which means "to sleep." The suffix "-iente" indicates an agent or performer of an action, suggesting something that sleeps or supports another structure in a resting manner.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Suelo (in the context of a bed or ground)
• Travesaño (specifically in railways)

Antonyms

• Despertador (alarm clock, in a metaphorical sense of waking up)
• Activo (active, in a figurative context)

This comprehensive breakdown provides rich insights into the word "durmiente," illustrating its multifaceted meanings across various contexts.