caravana
“caravana” means “convoy” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
convoy, procession
Also: motorcade
📝 In Action
La caravana de ayuda humanitaria tardó tres días en llegar a la zona afectada.
B1The humanitarian aid convoy took three days to reach the affected area.
Había una caravana muy ruidosa celebrando la victoria del equipo.
B1There was a very loud procession celebrating the team's victory.
caravan
Also: trailer, camper
📝 In Action
Pasaremos las vacaciones en una caravana cerca de la playa.
A2We will spend our vacation in a caravan (RV/trailer) near the beach.
Necesitas un coche potente para remolcar esta caravana.
B1You need a powerful car to tow this trailer.
earring
Also: dangle earring
📝 In Action
Perdí una de mis caravanas favoritas en el concierto.
B2I lost one of my favorite earrings at the concert.
Ella siempre lleva caravanas grandes y llamativas.
B2She always wears big, flashy earrings.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "caravana" in Spanish:
camper→caravan→convoy→dangle earring→earring→motorcade→procession→trailer→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: caravana
Question 1 of 2
Which English word is NOT a correct translation for 'caravana' depending on the region or context?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Persian word *kārvān*, meaning 'group of desert travelers' or 'company.' It entered Spanish via Arabic and has historically referred to large groups traveling together for trade or protection. The meaning shifted in modern times to include the vehicle (trailer) itself and, regionally, to dangling jewelry (which visually resembles a long, hanging line).
First recorded: 14th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I distinguish between the 'convoy' meaning and the 'RV' meaning?
The context usually makes it clear. If you see 'una caravana de' followed by a plural word (like 'coches' or 'personas'), it means 'convoy' or 'procession.' If it's used with verbs like 'alquilar' (to rent) or 'acampar' (to camp), it refers to the recreational vehicle.
Can I use 'caravana' for a motorhome (the kind you drive)?
In Spain, it's best to use 'autocaravana' for the self-driving vehicle and reserve 'caravana' for the towed trailer. In other regions, the distinction is less strict, but 'autocaravana' is always safer for the driven vehicle.