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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/tapaˈðeɾa/

Translation Options into English

• Lid
• Cover
• Concealment (in a figurative sense)

Meaning and Usage

The word "tapadera" has a few meanings depending on the context in which it is used:

1. Lid or Cover: In a literal sense, it refers to a lid or cover that can be used to close containers, such as pots or boxes.
2. Concealment: In a more figurative context, it is often used to describe something that is a façade or a cover for hidden activities, like illegal actions or deceit.

In terms of frequency, "tapadera" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, especially in legal and colloquial discussions.

Example Sentences

1. La tapadera del recipiente se rompió y se derramó el contenido.
   The lid of the container broke, and its contents spilled out.

2. Usó una tapadera para ocultar sus verdaderos intenciones.
   He used a cover to conceal his true intentions.

3. La tapadera del caso era una empresa fantasma.
   The cover of the case was a shell company.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "tapadera" is frequently used in idiomatic expressions, often relating to concealment or hidden motives.

1. Aguas debajo de la tapadera: Refers to underlying issues that are not visible on the surface.
   En nuestra discusión, siempre hay aguas debajo de la tapadera.
   In our discussion, there are always waters under the lid.

2. Poner tapadera: To cover up or to hide something.
   Decidió poner tapadera a sus errores pasados.
   He decided to cover up his past mistakes.

3. Tapadera del negocio: Refers to a façade for a business that is hiding illicit activities.
   La tienda era solo una tapadera del negocio de drogas.
   The store was just a cover for the drug business.

4. Tapar la tapadera: To obscure the truth or to prevent something from being known.
   Intentaron tapar la tapadera del escándalo.
   They tried to cover up the lid of the scandal.

Etymology

The term "tapadera" comes from the Spanish verb "tapar," which means "to cover." The suffix "-dera" implies a tool or object associated with the verb's action. Thus, "tapadera" essentially denotes a tool that serves to cover.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Cubierta (cover) - Tapa (lid) - Encubrimiento (cover-up, concealment)

Antonyms: - Descubierta (uncovered) - Exposición (exposure)

In summary, "tapadera" holds multiple meanings and is integral in both daily conversations and specialized contexts like law, emphasizing concealment and covers of various kinds.