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

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/zopiˈlo.te/

Translation Options into English

• Vulture
• Buzzard

Meaning and Usage

The term "zopilote" refers to a type of bird belonging to the family of vultures, commonly found in the Americas. These birds are scavengers, primarily feeding on carrion. The word is predominantly used in the context of zoology, particularly when discussing the ecological roles of scavengers.

Frequency of Use: The term "zopilote" is common in oral speech, particularly in regions like Honduras, Costa Rica, and Mexico. Its usage is somewhat frequent in both written and spoken contexts, especially in discussions surrounding wildlife, ecology, and local culture.

Example Sentences

1. El zopilote sobrevoló el campo en busca de alimento.

2. The vulture hovered over the field looking for food.

3. Los zopilotes son fundamentales para el ecosistema, ya que ayudan a limpiar el medio ambiente.

4. Vultures are essential for the ecosystem as they help clean the environment.

5. En nuestra excursión, vimos un zopilote descansando en una rama.

6. On our hike, we saw a vulture resting on a branch.

Idiomatic Expressions

While "zopilote" itself is not the center of common idiomatic expressions, it can be used in figurative language in various contexts. Here are a few examples:

1. Ver el zopilote pasar.
2. To see the vulture pass by.

3. This expression is often used to signify a situation where something ominous or foreboding is looming overhead.

4. Sino hay zopilote, no hay fiesta.

5. If there's no vulture, there’s no party.

6. This expression means that some negative or challenging event often precedes a celebratory moment.

7. El zopilote siempre está al acecho.

8. The vulture is always lurking.

9. This suggests that trouble or bad news is often waiting just around the corner.

10. Quedarse como un zopilote.

11. To stay like a vulture.
12. This phrase describes someone who is waiting to take advantage of another’s misfortune.

Etymology

The word "zopilote" originates from the Nahuatl term "zopilotl," which refers to a vulture. This reflects the bird's longstanding significance in Mesoamerican cultures and highlights its presence in the natural environment of the region.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Buitre (vulture) - Cernícalo (kestrel, although not primarily a vulture, can be encountered as a scavenger in context)

Antonyms: - Prey (in the ecological food chain context) - Animal (in contexts referring to living beings interacting with vultures)

This comprehensive overview of "zopilote" captures its significance in various linguistic, cultural, and ecological realms, especially in Central America.