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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/maθˈmo.ra/ (in Spain) or /masˈmo.ra/ (in Latin America)

Translation Options into English

• Dungeon
• Cell
• Vault

Meaning and Usage

The word "mazmorra" refers to a subterranean room or cell, typically used for imprisonment. It has historical connotations, often associated with medieval dungeons where prisoners were kept. In contemporary Spanish, it can also be used metaphorically to describe a dark, oppressive place or situation.

The term is used in both oral and written contexts, although it may be found more frequently in literary or historical discussions, as well as storytelling and media that depict historical events or fantasy genres.

Example Sentences

1. "El prisionero fue encerrado en la mazmorra durante años."

2. "The prisoner was locked in the dungeon for years."

3. "En la novela, el héroe encuentra un mapa que lo lleva a una antigua mazmorra."

4. "In the novel, the hero finds a map that leads him to an ancient dungeon."

5. "La mazmorra estaba oscura y húmeda, llena de telarañas."

6. "The dungeon was dark and damp, filled with cobwebs."

Idiomatic Expressions

While "mazmorra" itself is not frequently used in many idiomatic expressions, it can inspire metaphoric language surrounding themes of imprisonment or confinement. Here are a few relevant expressions:

1. Salir de la mazmorra
2. "Después de años de sufrimiento, finalmente pudo salir de la mazmorra."

3. "After years of suffering, he was finally able to leave the dungeon."

4. Vivir en una mazmorra

5. "Siento que vivo en una mazmorra, sin libertad ni esperanza."

6. "I feel like I live in a dungeon, with no freedom or hope."

7. Hacer una mazmorra de un lugar

8. "No conviertas tu habitación en una mazmorra; necesita más luz y vida."
9. "Don't turn your room into a dungeon; it needs more light and life."

Etymology

The term "mazmorra" originates from the Latin "mānsio," which means a place of dwelling or habitation. Over time, it evolved into "mānsura," referring to a basement or hidden place, ultimately leading to the modern Spanish "mazmorra," which specifically denotes dark, underground confinement spaces.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms - Cárcel (prison) - Calabozo (cell) - Sótano (basement)

Antonyms - Libertad (freedom) - Abierto (open) - Superficie (surface)