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

Part of Speech

"Fraile" is a noun in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/fɾaˈile/

Translation Options into English

• Friar
• Monk

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, "fraile" refers to a member of a religious order, particularly in the context of a Christian order such as the Franciscan or Dominican orders. These individuals often take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, and typically live in a community. The word is commonly used in both oral speech and written contexts, albeit it is slightly more frequent in written texts within discussions of religion, history, and culture.

Example Sentences

1. El fraile predicó sobre la importancia de la caridad en la comunidad.

2. The friar preached about the importance of charity in the community.

3. En la antigua iglesia del pueblo, un fraile solía ofrecer misas cada domingo.

4. In the old church of the town, a friar used to hold mass every Sunday.

5. Muchos frailes dedicaron su vida al servicio de los más necesitados.

6. Many friars dedicated their lives to serving the most needy.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Fraile" is not extensively used in idiomatic expressions compared to other words, but it can appear in some phrases that reference religious life or roles in society.

1. "Estar como un fraile."
2. Significance: Means being in a state of purity or innocence, often used humorously.

3. Example: "Después de aquel fin de semana, volvió a casa como un fraile."

   • "After that weekend, he returned home as pure as a monk."

4. "Fraile de fuego."

5. Significance: Refers to someone who is very devoted or zealous about their beliefs or opinions.

6. Example: "No te preocupes, su pasión por los ideales sociales es la de un fraile de fuego."

   • "Don't worry, his passion for social ideals is that of a fervent friar."

7. "Hacer de fraile."

8. Significance: To assume a role of moral authority or guidance.
9. Example: "Siempre tiene que hacer de fraile cuando estamos en situaciones difíciles."
   • "He always has to play the role of the moral guide when we are in difficult situations."

Etymology

The term "fraile" originates from the Latin word "frater," which means "brother." Historically, it has come to denote members of certain monasteries and religious orders who live together in brotherhood.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Monje (Monk) - Religioso (Religious)

Antonyms: - Laico (Layperson) - No religioso (Non-religious)

This comprehensive view of the word "fraile" encompasses its grammatical aspects, meanings, uses, and cultural significance in the Spanish language.