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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/horˈmiɣa/

Translation Options into English

• Ant

Meaning of the Word

The term "hormiga" refers to a small insect belonging to the family Formicidae. They are known for their social behavior, forming colonies or communities. In the Spanish language, "hormiga" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in discussions that involve biology, ecology, or even in metaphorical expressions.

In general conversation, the word is frequently used and understood by the population, considering ants are a common aspect of both daily life and various ecosystems.

Example Sentences

1. Las hormigas trabajan juntas para construir sus hormigueros.
   The ants work together to build their anthills.

2. Vi una hormiga llevando una hoja más grande que ella.
   I saw an ant carrying a leaf bigger than itself.

3. Las hormigas son importantes para el ecosistema porque airean el suelo.
   Ants are important for the ecosystem because they aerate the soil.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "hormiga" is often used in expression to carry metaphorical meanings, primarily associated with hard work, industriousness, or being meticulous.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions

1. Ella es como una hormiga, siempre trabajando sin parar.
   She is like an ant, always working non-stop.

2. Si sigues acumulando dinero como una hormiga, tendrás un buen futuro.
   If you keep saving money like an ant, you will have a good future.

3. El proyecto fue terminado gracias al esfuerzo de una hormiga que se preocupó por los detalles.
   The project was completed thanks to the effort of an ant who cared about the details.

4. En esta empresa, todos trabajan como hormigas para cumplir con los plazos.
   In this company, everyone works like ants to meet the deadlines.

5. No seas hormiga, disfruta de la vida y no solo trabajes.
   Don't be an ant, enjoy life and don't just work.

Etymology

The word "hormiga" comes from Latin "formīca", which also means ant. The transformation from Latin to Spanish likely involved phonetic changes typical in the evolution of Romance languages.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Insecto social (social insect) - Bichito (small bug, colloquial)

Antonyms: While there are no direct antonyms, one might view solitary or non-social insects in contrast, such as certain beetles or wasps.