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

Part of Speech

• Verb (intransitive and transitive)

Phonetic Transcription

• /beˈlar/

Translation Options into English

• To watch over
• To keep vigil
• To veil
• To cover

Meaning and Usage

"Velar" is a versatile verb in the Spanish language with multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It can indicate keeping a vigil (typically over a deceased person), covering something, or overseeing something to ensure safety or care.

• Frequency of Use: "Velar" is used with moderate frequency, particularly in contexts related to care, oversight, and rituals. It is common in both spoken and written forms, though the specific connotations of the term may lend themselves more to formal or literary contexts.

Example Sentences

1. Velar en la noche puede ser cansado, pero es importante para los que están de luto.

2. "Keeping vigil at night can be tiring, but it is important for those who are grieving."

3. Los padres deben velar por la seguridad de sus hijos.

4. "Parents must watch over the safety of their children."

5. Durante la ceremonia, los asistentes velaron la imagen del santo.

6. "During the ceremony, the attendees kept vigil over the image of the saint."

Idiomatic Expressions

"Velar" is incorporated into various idiomatic expressions in Spanish, emphasizing protection, care, or secrecy.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. Velar por el bien: "Los voluntarios siempre velan por el bien de la comunidad."

2. "The volunteers always watch over the well-being of the community."

3. Velar la noche: "Elegimos velar la noche en el campamento para contar historias."

4. "We chose to keep vigil over the night at the campsite to tell stories."

5. Velar un secreto: "Ella se comprometió a velar el secreto hasta el final."

6. "She committed to keeping the secret until the end."

7. Velar los sueños: "Es importante velar los sueños de los niños, apoyando sus aspiraciones."

8. "It's important to watch over children's dreams, supporting their aspirations."

9. Velar por la justicia: "Los abogados deben velar por la justicia en todos los casos."

10. "Lawyers must watch over justice in all cases."

Etymology

The word "velar" has its roots in Latin, originating from the verb "vigilare," which means "to stay awake" or "to be alert." This link illustrates the verb's connotation of watchfulness and careful oversight.

Synonyms

• Atender (to attend)
• Cuidar (to care for)
• Proteger (to protect)
• Cubrir (to cover)

Antonyms

• Descuidar (to neglect)
• Abandonar (to abandon)
• Desamparar (to forsake)

In summary, "velar" is a meaningful verb in Spanish, reflecting care, vigilance, and protection across multiple contexts and idiomatic expressions. Its Latin roots and various synonyms enrich its usage in the richness of the Spanish language.