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

Part of Speech

Trompo is a noun in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/tɾom.po/

Translation Options into English

• Top (as in a spinning top)
• Trombone (in some contexts)
• Whirligig

Meaning and Usage

Trompo generally refers to a spinning toy called a “top,” which is traditionally made of wood or plastic. It is spun on a point, and the objective is to keep it spinning for as long as possible. The term may also refer to similar types of toys in various cultures. In some Caribbean contexts, it can refer to a type of musical instrument.

• Frequency of Use: The term is commonly used in both oral and written contexts in Spanish-speaking countries, especially among children.

• Context: It is often heard in casual conversations, games, children's play, and folk narratives.

Example Sentences

1. Los niños están jugando con un trompo en el parque.

2. The children are playing with a top in the park.

3. Mi abuelo solía hacer trompos de madera cuando era joven.

4. My grandfather used to make wooden tops when he was young.

Idiomatic Expressions

While trompo does not have a wealth of idiomatic expressions directly involving it, it is often used metaphorically in some regions, especially in colloquial speech.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. Estar como trompo (to be spinning like a top)
2. Translation: To be disoriented or overwhelmed.

3. El niño está como trompo después de tantas vueltas en el parque.

   • The boy is spinning like a top after so many turns in the park.

4. Sacar el trompo (to take out the top)

5. Translation: To show off or to bring attention to something.
6. Ella siempre saca el trompo cuando se trata de sus logros académicos.
   • She always shows off when it comes to her academic achievements.

Etymology

The word trompo is derived from the Latin word tornare, meaning "to turn." It evolved through various forms in the Romance languages. The word has roots in the notion of spinning or twirling.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: Peonza (in some contexts), juguete (toy), trombón (in musical contexts).
• Antonyms: Estático (static), inmóvil (immobile).

This comprehensive overview of trompo illustrates its meaning, usage, and relevance in various contexts within the Spanish language, along with its cultural significance.