compás
“compás” means “beat” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
beat, measure
Also: rhythm, time signature
📝 In Action
Tienes que seguir el compás de la música.
A2You have to follow the beat of the music.
Llevaba el compás golpeando la mesa con los dedos.
B1He was keeping time by tapping the table with his fingers.
Esta canción tiene un compás de cuatro por cuatro.
B2This song has a four-four time signature.
compass
Also: pair of compasses
📝 In Action
Usa el compás para dibujar un círculo perfecto.
A1Use the compass to draw a perfect circle.
Se me rompió la punta del compás.
B1The lead of my compass broke.
El arquitecto trazó las curvas con un compás.
B2The architect traced the curves with a compass.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "compás" in Spanish:
time signature→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: compás
Question 1 of 3
If you are in a math class and need to draw a circle, what do you ask for?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'compassare', which means 'to measure with steps' or 'to pace out'. This comes from 'com-' (together) and 'passus' (step).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'compás' and 'brújula' the same thing?
Usually, no. 'Compás' is the tool for drawing circles or the musical beat. 'Brújula' is the magnetic tool used for navigation/hiking. Only sailors typically use 'compás' for navigation.
Is 'compás' masculine or feminine?
It is always masculine: 'el compás'.
Can 'compás' mean a physical area?
In some specific historical or religious contexts, 'compás' can refer to an enclosed area or courtyard (like in a convent), but this is much less common than the music or tool meanings.