Noun
/mó.na/
The word "mona" primarily refers to a type of monkey, especially in informal contexts. In certain regions, such as Argentina, it can also denote a doll or be used as a term of endearment for a girl, suggesting something sweet or pretty. The usage of "mona" can vary significantly based on region and context. In terms of frequency, "mona" is more often used in oral speech, especially in familiar settings among friends and family.
La niña juega con su mona de peluche.
(The girl plays with her stuffed monkey.)
Ella es muy mona, siempre sonríe.
(She is very cute; she always smiles.)
En el zoológico vimos una mona saltando.
(At the zoo, we saw a monkey jumping.)
The word "mona" appears in various idiomatic expressions, particularly in some Latin American cultures. It is often used to convey affection or to describe someone in a playful or lighthearted manner.
Esa chica es una monada.
(That girl is a little cutie.)
Estás muy mona hoy.
(You look very cute today.)
La fiesta estuvo de monadas.
(The party was full of cuties.)
¡Qué mona! No puedo creer que hayas hecho eso.
(How cute! I can't believe you did that.)
No seas mona, esto es serio.
(Don’t be silly; this is serious.)
The term "mona" originates from Latin, specifically from “monachus”, meaning "monk," which eventually evolved through various forms before settling into the modern Spanish usage referring to monkeys. The use as a term of endearment may have stemmed from the perceived cuteness of little monkeys or dolls.
Synonyms: - Mono (in certain contexts referring to the monkey) - Muñeca (in the context of a doll)
Antonyms: - Enano (dwarf, when referring to something small and not cute in certain contexts) - Grotesco (grotesque, when referring to something unattractive)
In summary, "mona" is a versatile term with a variety of meanings and uses depending on the region and context, highlighting the richness of the Spanish language in colloquial expressions and affectionate terms.