The word mate primarily refers to a traditional South American beverage made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant, which is brewed and consumed through a metal straw called a "bombilla". It is especially popular in countries like Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and Brazil. The drink is often prepared in a hollowed gourd (also called "mate") and shared among friends or family, symbolizing friendship and social connection. In a colloquial sense, mate can also mean "friend" or "buddy".
Frequency of Use: The term is commonly used, particularly in conversational Spanish among South Americans. It is prevalent in both oral and written contexts, though more frequently in oral conversation due to the social nature of the drink.
Vamos a tomar mate en el parque.
Let's go drink mate in the park.
Mis amigos y yo somos buenos mates.
My friends and I are good mates (friends).
El mate es una bebida muy popular en Argentina.
Mate is a very popular drink in Argentina.
The word mate is often used in various idiomatic expressions, particularly in South America, reflecting its cultural significance.
"Estar de mate"
This expression means to hang out, to spend time together.
Translation: "We're just hanging out."
"Hacer mate"
It means to prepare or brew mate.
Translation: "I'm making mate for everyone."
"Ser un buen mate"
This means to be a good friend.
Translation: "He is a good mate."
"Romper el mate"
It expresses the idea of ending a friendly relationship.
Translation: "They broke their friendship."
"Tejo y mate"
Refers to enjoying leisure activities and drinks together.
Translation: "We played tejo and shared mate."
"Sabor a mate"
It indicates the taste of mate, often used to describe a close friend or a warm atmosphere.
Translation: "The gathering had a taste of mate."
The word "mate" comes from the indigenous Guarani term "kuy," which refers to the gourd that is used for drinking the infusion. The Spanish term "mate" was derived as the Spanish colonizers adopted the beverage and its customs. Over time, the practice spread to other countries, leading to its synonymous use with friendship and social gatherings.
Synonyms: - Compañero (companion) - Amigo (friend)
Antonyms: - Enemigo (enemy) - Desconocido (stranger)