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

Part of Speech

Mantequilla is a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/manteˈkiʎa/

Translation Options into English

• Butter

Meaning and Usage

In Spanish, mantequilla refers to a creamy and fatty substance made from churning cream or milk, used primarily as a spread on bread, in cooking, and for baking. It is widely used in various culinary contexts, and its frequency of use is high in both oral speech and written contexts, as it is a common food item.

Example Sentences

1. Me gusta untar mantequilla en mi tostada por la mañana.

2. I like to spread butter on my toast in the morning.

3. Para hacer la galleta, necesitas mantequilla, azúcar y harina.

4. To make the cookie, you need butter, sugar, and flour.

Idiomatic Expressions

Though "mantequilla" is primarily a culinary term, it is also featured in a few idiomatic expressions in Spanish:

1. Estar como mantequilla
2. Signifies someone easily affected or influenced by others or situations.
3. Ejemplo: Ella siempre está como mantequilla en las discusiones, no se atreve a defender sus ideas.

4. Translation: She is always like butter in discussions; she doesn't dare to defend her ideas.

5. Hacer algo con mantequilla

6. Means to do something very easily or with a lot of comfort.
7. Ejemplo: Resolver este problema fue como hacer algo con mantequilla para él.

8. Translation: Solving this problem was like doing something with butter for him.

9. Tener la cabeza como una mantequilla

10. Describes someone who is scatterbrained or forgetful.
11. Ejemplo: No te preocupes por él, siempre tiene la cabeza como una mantequilla en clase.
12. Translation: Don't worry about him; he's always scatterbrained in class.

Etymology

The term mantequilla originates from the Latin word "mānsu" which means "to soften". This is reflected in its texture and use. The suffix "-illa" is a diminutive form in Spanish, implying a small or affectionate version of the original term, thus enhancing its endearing nature.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Manteca (though this may refer more to lard or a fatty substance)
• Grasa (fat)

Antonyms

• Aceite (oil, though it is not a direct antonym, it refers to a different type of fatling substance)

This comprehensive overview highlights the culinary significance and nuances associated with "mantequilla" in the Spanish language while providing insight into its use in daily expressions and phrases.