Adjective (and also used as a noun).
/horˈteɾa/
In Spanish, "hortera" is typically used to describe something that is considered tasteless, tacky, or gaudy. It can apply to fashion, decor, art, or behavior that is perceived as lacking sophistication or good taste. This word is often used in an offensive or derogatory manner, targeting someone who embodies these characteristics.
"Hortera" is frequently used in everyday conversation, especially in informal contexts and colloquial speech. It is less common in formal writing but may appear in critiques of art, fashion, or behavior.
That shirt is too tacky for a wedding.
No puedes usar esas sandalias horteras otra vez.
You can't wear those tacky sandals again.
Me parece hortera cómo decoraron esa casa.
While "hortera" may not be tied to many fixed idiomatic expressions, it does contribute to colloquial phrases in Spanish that embody the idea of bad taste or tackiness. Below are some examples:
She always looks tacky at parties; she never knows what to wear.
Viví como un hortera.
No seas hortera.
The term "hortera" is derived from the word "hortaliza," meaning "vegetable," which referred to low-quality or inferior items. Over time, it evolved to denote things that are deemed unattractive or lacking in sophistication, similar to how one might perceive low-quality produce.
Synonyms: - Kitsch - Tasteless - Vulgar
Antonyms: - Elegante (Elegant) - Sofisticado (Sophisticated) - Refinado (Refined)
This multi-faceted usage illustrates how "hortera" has a broad application in critiquing taste across various forms of expression, lending itself to both casual and evaluative contexts.