amparo
“amparo” means “protection” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
protection
Also: shelter, refuge
📝 In Action
Los niños crecen bajo el amparo de su familia.
B1The children grow up under the protection of their family.
Buscamos amparo de la lluvia en un pequeño café.
A2We sought shelter from the rain in a small café.
Se sintió sola y sin amparo en la gran ciudad.
B2She felt alone and without protection in the big city.
legal recourse
Also: writ of protection
📝 In Action
El abogado presentó un recurso de amparo ante el tribunal.
C1The lawyer filed a constitutional appeal before the court.
La Constitución garantiza el amparo de los derechos fundamentales.
B2The Constitution guarantees the protection of fundamental rights.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: amparo
Question 1 of 3
Which of these is the most common way to say someone is protected by their family?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Derived from the Latin word 'anteparare,' which means 'to prepare beforehand' or 'to provide against.' Over time, it evolved into the idea of preparing a defense or providing shelter.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'Amparo' also a name?
Yes! Amparo is a traditional Spanish female name, often associated with the Virgin Mary (Nuestra Señora de los Desamparados).
How is it different from 'refugio'?
'Refugio' is usually a physical place (like a mountain cabin), while 'amparo' is more the abstract feeling or act of being protected.
Can I use 'amparo' to talk about insurance?
Not usually. For insurance, you use 'cobertura' (coverage) or 'protección.' 'Amparo' is too formal/legal for a standard insurance policy.