mapa
“mapa” means “map” in Spanish (geographical representation).
map, chart
Also: plan, diagram
📝 In Action
Necesitamos un mapa para encontrar el camino al pueblo.
A1We need a map to find the way to the town.
El mapa del metro es muy confuso.
A2The subway map is very confusing.
Presentaron el mapa de ruta para los próximos cinco años de la empresa.
B1They presented the roadmap (plan) for the company's next five years.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: mapa
Question 1 of 2
Which article must you use before the word 'mapa'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word comes from Latin, specifically from the phrase *mappa mundi* (cloth of the world), where *mappa* meant 'napkin' or 'cloth'. It is related to other Spanish words ending in -ma that come from Ancient Greek (like 'problema' and 'tema'), which is why it keeps the masculine gender despite ending in -a.
First recorded: Medieval Latin (as *mappa*), 13th century in Spanish.
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'mapa' masculine if it ends in -a?
This is a common exception in Spanish! Many nouns that end in -ma, -pa, or -ta and come from Greek (like 'problema,' 'planeta,' and 'mapa') keep the masculine gender. Just remember to use 'el' or 'un' with them.
Is 'mapa' the same as 'plano'?
They are very similar synonyms. 'Mapa' usually refers to a large geographical area (a country or world). 'Plano' often refers to a smaller area, like the layout of a single building, a floor plan, or a simple sketch of a neighborhood.