Vaca is a noun in Spanish.
/vˈaka/
In Spanish, vaca primarily refers to a female bovine animal, commonly known as a cow. The word can also be used in a broader agricultural context to refer to cattle more generally. In everyday language, its frequency of use can be considered moderate, as it can appear in both oral and written contexts, often pertaining to livestock, agriculture, and various idiomatic expressions.
La vaca pastaba tranquilamente en el campo.
The cow was grazing peacefully in the field.
El granjero tiene varias vacas en su rancho.
The farmer has several cows on his ranch.
La leche proviene de la vaca.
Milk comes from the cow.
Vaca is used in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish, often conveying cultural nuances. Here are some examples:
Estar como una vaca.
To be as big as a cow.
Translation: This expression is used to describe someone who appears overweight or has a large build.
Llevarse como perro y vaca.
To get along like a dog and a cow.
Translation: This phrase indicates that two people do not get along at all, suggesting a significant conflict or disagreement.
A vaca muerta, no se le puede sacar leche.
From a dead cow, you can't get milk.
Translation: This idiom is used to express that one cannot obtain benefits from something that is no longer viable or useful.
Más vale una vaca en mano que mil volando.
A cow in hand is worth more than a thousand flying.
Translation: This saying emphasizes the importance of having something tangible as opposed to chasing uncertain prospects.
The word vaca comes from the Latin word vacca, which referred to a cow or female cattle. The term has been retained in several Romance languages with similar meanings, indicating the historical significance of livestock in agrarian societies.
Synonyms: - Bovina (referring to bovines generally) - Animal de pasto (pasture animal)
Antonyms: - Toro (bull, referring to a male bovine) - Buey (ox, referring to a castrated male usually used for work)
Overall, vaca is a significant term in both common and idiomatic expressions within the Spanish language, deeply embedded in cultural and agricultural contexts.