adema
“adema” means “prop” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
prop
Also: strut, shoring timber
📝 In Action
Los mineros reforzaron el túnel con un adema de roble.
B2The miners reinforced the tunnel with an oak prop.
Es peligroso entrar si falta algún adema en la estructura.
C1It is dangerous to enter if any support beam is missing from the structure.
El ingeniero inspeccionó cada adema para asegurar la estabilidad.
C2The engineer inspected every strut to ensure stability.
he/she shores up
Also: prop up!
📝 In Action
El operario adema la excavación para evitar derrumbes.
C1The worker shores up the excavation to prevent collapses.
¡Adema ese muro antes de que ceda!
B2Shore up that wall before it gives way!
Cuando el terreno es blando, el equipo adema con más frecuencia.
C2When the ground is soft, the team props it up more frequently.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: adema
Question 1 of 3
What is 'un adema' most likely to be used for?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the verb 'ademar', which is believed to originate from the Germanic 'damm' (meaning dike or embankment), related to the idea of holding back earth.
First recorded: 18th Century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'adema' the same as 'ademán'?
No. 'Ademán' means a gesture or a physical movement of the body. 'Adema' is a support beam used in mining.
Is 'adema' masculine or feminine?
It is masculine: 'el adema'. Although it ends in 'a', it does not follow the typical feminine pattern.
Can I use 'adema' to talk about supporting a friend?
No, 'adema' is strictly for physical, structural support like wood or steel beams. Use 'apoyo' for emotional support.