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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/tɑˈmɑl/

Translation Options into English

• Tamale (singular)
• Tamales (plural)

Meaning and Usage

A tamal (plural: tamales) is a traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (corn dough) that is filled with various ingredients (such as meats, vegetables, or cheeses) and wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves before being steamed or boiled. The word is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in culinary discussions, celebrations, and cultural practices in many Latin American countries.

Tamales are especially popular in American, Peruvian, and Chilean cuisine, where they may have regional variations in ingredients and preparation methods. Their frequency of use is common during celebrations, holidays, and family gatherings, demonstrating their cultural significance.

Example Sentences

1. Los tamales son un platillo tradicional en las fiestas de Navidad.

2. Tamales are a traditional dish during Christmas celebrations.

3. En Perú, los tamales a veces se rellenan con carne de cerdo.

4. In Peru, tamales are sometimes filled with pork.

5. En Chile, se preparan tamales con un toque de ají y aceitunas.

6. In Chile, tamales are prepared with a touch of chili and olives.

Idiomatic Expressions

Tamales are less commonly found in specific idiomatic expressions, but they do appear in cultural phrases related to gatherings and festivities. A few expressions that include "tamal" or are contextual to it include:

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Context

1. No hay fiesta sin tamales, eso es un hecho.

2. There's no party without tamales; that's a fact.

3. Al hacer tamales en familia, se fortalece el lazo entre todos.

4. Making tamales as a family strengthens the bond between everyone.

5. La abuela siempre dice que los mejores tamales se hacen con amor.

6. Grandma always says that the best tamales are made with love.

7. Cada fin de diciembre, hacemos una tanda de tamales para celebrar el Año Nuevo.

8. Every December, we make a batch of tamales to celebrate the New Year.

Etymology

The word "tamal" comes from the Nahuatl word "tamalli," meaning "wrapped." This reflects the traditional preparation method of wrapping the masa and filling in corn husks or leaves. The use of tamales dates back to ancient Mesoamerican cultures.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Pastelito (in some contexts, referring to a small pastry that can be filled) - Empanada (though usually a different type of dish, they can sometimes be used interchangeably in specific regions)

Antonyms: - Ensalada (salad, as it refers to a cold dish and not a wrapped or cooked meal) - Sopa (soup, representing a different style of cooking)

Tamales hold an important role culturally and gastronomically in many Latin American societies, symbolizing community, family ties, and tradition.