Urraca is a noun in Spanish.
The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription for "urraca" is /uˈraka/.
The word "urraca" translates to "magpie" in English.
In zoology, "urraca" refers specifically to certain species of birds from the family of Corvidae, known for their distinctive black and white plumage and their intelligence. Colloquially, the term can also be used to describe a person who is seen as gossipy, meddlesome, or overly talkative.
The usage of "urraca" is relatively common in both oral and written contexts, particularly in discussions about birds or describing behaviors typical of people who like to gossip.
La urraca se posó en el árbol, buscando algo que comer.
The magpie perched on the tree, looking for something to eat.
No seas una urraca, guarda tus secretos.
Don't be a magpie, keep your secrets.
Cuando empezó a hablar de los demás, se convirtió en una urraca.
When she started talking about others, she became a magpie.
The word "urraca" is also found in several idiomatic expressions in Spanish, which reflect its colloquial and figurative meanings.
Ser como una urraca
To be like a magpie - Refers to someone who is overly talkative or gossipy.
Ella siempre está contando chismes; es como una urraca.
She is always spreading gossip; she is like a magpie.
Urraca que no pica
Magpie that doesn’t pick - Used to describe someone who is overly nosy but doesn’t provide any useful information.
Esa urraca que no pica solo trae problemas.
That nosy magpie only brings problems.
Ver cosas que ni la urraca
See things that not even the magpie can see - To notice or be skeptical about things that are very unlikely or implausible.
No te creas todo lo que dicen; a veces se ven cosas que ni la urraca.
Don’t believe everything they say; sometimes you see things that not even the magpie can see.
Coger uña de urraca
To catch the claw of a magpie - This phrase is used to refer to someone who meddles in affairs that don't concern them.
Siempre está cogiendo uña de urraca en la vida de los demás.
She is always catching the claw of a magpie in other people's lives.
The word "urraca" comes from the Latin word māgarica, which referred to a particular type of bird known in the region. Over time, it evolved through the Classical Latin and into the Spanish language, maintaining a connection to its avian roots.
This comprehensive exploration of "urraca" illustrates its significance in Spanish both zoologically and colloquially, showcasing its usage in various contexts and expressions.