muda (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation
Part of Speech
The word muda is a noun in Spanish.
Phonetic Transcription
/muˈða/
Translation Options into English
molt
change
removal
move (in a context like relocation)
Meaning and Usage
In Spanish, "muda" primarily refers to the process of shedding old feathers, skin, or exoskeleton, particularly in animals such as birds, reptiles, and insects. It can also refer to changes or transitions in contexts such as relocation or moving from one place to another.
Frequency of use: The term is relatively common in zoological contexts, particularly among discussions involving animal behavior and life cycles. It is also used in more general contexts related to change.
Preferred context: It appears more frequently in written forms, such as scientific texts or literature, but can also be found in spoken conversations, especially among individuals discussing animals or changes in states.
Example Sentences
El pájaro comenzó a hacer su muda de plumas en primavera.
The bird began its molt in spring.
La muda de piel de la serpiente fue espectacular de ver.
The snake's shedding of skin was spectacular to watch.
Idiomatic Expressions
While "muda" may not be commonly featured in idiomatic expressions, it can appear in certain contexts that convey change or transformation. Here are a few examples:
Cambiar de muda: Signifies changing one’s clothing or look.
Al final del día, decidí cambiar de muda antes de salir.
At the end of the day, I decided to change my clothes before going out.
Muda de piel: Referring to a significant transformation in a person or situation.
Tras meses de trabajo duro, su empresa hizo una muda de piel y comenzó a prosperar.
After months of hard work, her company underwent a significant transformation and began to thrive.
Hacer una muda: To move or transfer from one place to another.
Este fin de semana, haremos una muda a la nueva casa.
This weekend, we will make a move to the new house.
Etymology
The term "muda" comes from the Latin word muta, which is derived from the verb mutare, meaning "to change" or "to alter." The evolution of this term retains the idea of transformation, aligning well with its current meanings in both zoological contexts and general uses.