Noun
/zɔɾo/
The word "zorro" primarily refers to the animal "fox" in Spanish. It can also connote cunning or trickery, as foxes are often associated with being sly or crafty in various cultures. In colloquial usage, especially in some Latin American countries, calling someone a "zorro" might imply that they are cunning or deceptive.
The term is commonly used in both oral and written forms, although it may appear more frequently in literature or idiomatic expressions than in everyday speech.
El zorro es un animal muy astuto.
The fox is a very clever animal.
En la fábula, el zorro engañó a las gallinas.
In the fable, the fox tricked the hens.
Juan siempre trata de ser el zorro del grupo.
Juan always tries to be the trickster of the group.
The word "zorro" is often included in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish that emphasize cunning or stealthiness. Here are a few notable examples:
Ser más astuto que un zorro.
To be smarter than a fox.
(Used to describe someone who is very clever or cunning.)
El zorro viejo no cae en trampas nuevas.
The old fox doesn't fall for new traps.
(This means that a wise person won't be easily fooled by new tricks or attempts.)
Cuando el zorro canta, la gallina no está lejos.
When the fox sings, the hen is not far.
(This expression warns that trouble is imminent when a cunning person is involved.)
The word "zorro" comes from the Latin term vulpes, which also means "fox." Over time, it evolved into the Old Spanish zorro and retained its meaning. The connection to cunning behavior is deeply rooted in cultural stories and fables throughout history.
Synonyms:
- Lobo (wolf) - although not exactly the same animal, in some contexts it can connote similar traits.
Antonyms:
- In terms of characteristics, there aren't direct antonyms, but "honesto" (honest) or "sincero" (sincere) could be viewed as oppositional traits to a "zorro."
In summary, "zorro" is a versatile word in the Spanish language that conveys meaning beyond just the animal itself, extending into areas of cunning and intelligence, with various idiomatic expressions highlighting its cultural significance.