arco
“arco” means “arch” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
arch, arc
Also: hoop, rainbow
📝 In Action
El puente antiguo tiene un arco de piedra muy impresionante.
A1The old bridge has a very impressive stone arch.
El arco iris apareció después de la lluvia.
A2The rainbow appeared after the rain.
Dibuja un arco con el compás.
B1Draw an arc with the compass.
goal, net
📝 In Action
El delantero falló el tiro y la pelota se fue por encima del arco.
A2The striker missed the shot and the ball went over the goal.
El portero protegió el arco con una atajada espectacular.
B1The goalkeeper protected the net with a spectacular save.
bow, bow
📝 In Action
El arquero tensó la cuerda del arco y disparó la flecha.
B1The archer tightened the bowstring and shot the arrow.
Necesito cambiar las cerdas del arco de mi violín.
C1I need to change the hairs on my violin bow.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: arco
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'arco' is most likely being used in the phrase 'El delantero disparó al arco'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes directly from the Latin word 'arcus,' which had the original dual meaning of 'bow' (weapon) and 'arch' (curve). The Spanish word has maintained both senses throughout history.
First recorded: Around the 10th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'arco' the same as 'portería'?
They are often used interchangeably in sports. 'Arco' usually emphasizes the frame or curved shape of the goal, while 'portería' emphasizes the entire goal area, including the net and the goalposts. In South America, 'arco' is generally preferred.
How do I say 'rainbow' using 'arco'?
You must use the complete phrase 'arco iris.' The word 'iris' refers to the colored part of the eye, so the phrase means 'iris-like arch' or 'arch of colors.'