cardenal
“cardenal” means “cardinal” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
cardinal
📝 In Action
El cardenal viajó a Roma para asistir a la reunión.
B1The cardinal traveled to Rome to attend the meeting.
Los cardenales eligen al nuevo Papa en el cónclave.
B2The cardinals elect the new Pope in the conclave.
cardinal
Also: red bird
📝 In Action
Vimos un hermoso cardenal macho en el árbol.
A2We saw a beautiful male cardinal in the tree.
El cardenal tiene un canto muy distintivo.
B1The cardinal has a very distinctive song.
bruise
Also: contusion
📝 In Action
Me caí y ahora tengo un cardenal grande en la pierna.
B2I fell and now I have a big bruise on my leg.
El golpe le dejó un cardenal morado.
B2The hit left him a purple bruise.
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: cardenal
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'cardenal' is related to its color?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Late Latin word *cardinālis*, which originally meant 'pertaining to a hinge' or 'principal/chief.' This title was first given to the main priests who served the most important churches in Rome (the 'hinges' of the faith). The bird and bruise meanings came later, derived from the deep red color of the church official's robes.
First recorded: 12th century (in Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'cardenal' ever mean the color red itself?
Yes, but usually as an adjective or paired with 'rojo,' like 'rojo cardenal,' to describe a specific, deep, bright red color. When standing alone, it usually refers to the official or the bird.
Is 'cardenal' a common word for a bruise?
It is understood, especially in parts of Central America and Mexico, but 'moratón' (in Spain) or 'hematoma' (more technical) are often preferred by native speakers in other regions.