joyas
“joyas” means “jewelry” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
jewelry, jewels
Also: gems
📝 In Action
Ella heredó las joyas de su abuela.
A2She inherited her grandmother's jewelry.
Perdió algunas joyas caras en el viaje.
B1She lost some expensive jewels on the trip.
Compramos joyas de plata en el mercado local.
A1We bought silver jewelry at the local market.
masterpiece, gem
Also: treasure
📝 In Action
Ese manuscrito antiguo es una joya histórica.
B2That ancient manuscript is a historical treasure/gem.
El restaurante que encontramos fue una joya escondida.
C1The restaurant we found was a hidden gem.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: joyas
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'joyas' in its figurative meaning?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from the Old French word 'joiel,' which meant 'a small ornament.' This word ultimately traces back to the Latin word 'gaudium,' meaning 'joy' or 'delight.' The word literally describes something that brings happiness.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'joyas' often plural even when English says 'jewelry' (singular)?
In Spanish, 'joyas' treats jewelry as a collection of individual pieces (rings, necklaces, etc.), requiring the plural form. While English uses 'jewelry' as an uncountable mass noun, Spanish prefers the countable plural.