Noun
/torˈti.ʎa/
The word "tortilla" in Spanish primarily means two things:
Tortilla (flatbread): A flat round bread made from corn or wheat flour, serving as a staple in Mexican cuisine and often used to make tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. It is a common food item in both oral and written contexts, particularly in discussions about Latin American cuisine.
Tortilla (omelet): In Spain, "tortilla" commonly refers to "tortilla española," which is a thick omelet made with eggs and potatoes. This preparation is central to Spanish cooking and is frequently discussed in recipes, menus, and amongst families.
Frequency of use is quite high in both oral and written contexts, particularly within culinary discussions, restaurant menus, and cultural references.
En México, la tortilla de maíz es un alimento básico en la dieta.
In Mexico, corn tortilla is a staple food in the diet.
La tortilla española se hace con huevos y papas fritas.
The Spanish omelet is made with eggs and fried potatoes.
No olvides comprar tortillas para preparar los tacos esta noche.
Don't forget to buy tortillas to prepare tacos tonight.
The word "tortilla" also appears in various idiomatic expressions and phrases in Spanish, often highlighting culinary customs or cultural references.
Estar como una tortilla
To be like a tortilla (referring to someone who is not rigid in their opinions or attitudes, akin to being flexible).
Ella es muy abierta y está como una tortilla con sus amigos.
She is very open and is like a tortilla with her friends.
Dar la vuelta a la tortilla
To turn the tortilla (to change the situation dramatically).
En la reunión, logró dar la vuelta a la tortilla y todos apoyaron su idea.
In the meeting, he managed to turn the situation around and everyone supported his idea.
No hay tortilla sin sopa
No tortilla without soup (there's no reward without effort).
El trabajo duro es necesario; no hay tortilla sin sopa.
Hard work is necessary; there’s no reward without effort.
Tortilla de harina y de maíz va bien con todo
Wheat and corn tortillas go well with everything (indicating variety or versatility).
En la fiesta, la tortilla de harina y de maíz va bien con todo tipo de platillos.
At the party, wheat and corn tortillas go well with all kinds of dishes.
The word “tortilla” comes from the Spanish diminutive form of “torta,” meaning "cake" or "round bread." The term originally referred to a small cake made with flour, and over time, evolved to denote the flatbread or omelet forms we recognize today. The term itself derives from the Latin word "torta," which is derived from "torere," meaning "to twist" or "to turn," reflecting the shape of the food.
Synonyms: - Tortilla de maíz (corn tortilla) - Tortilla de harina (wheat tortilla) - Tortilla española (Spanish omelet)
Antonyms: - No direct antonyms exist due to the specific culinary nature of the word, but in a broader context, one might argue terms like "pan" (bread) as contrasting, depending on usage.