medalla
“medalla” means “medal” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
medal
Also: locket
📝 In Action
Ella ganó la medalla de oro en la competencia de natación.
A2She won the gold medal in the swimming competition.
El militar recibió una medalla por su valentía en la batalla.
B1The soldier received a medal for his bravery in battle.
credit
📝 In Action
Él siempre se cuelga la medalla por el trabajo de su equipo.
B2He always takes the credit for his team's work.
No te cuelgues la medalla; yo fui quien tuvo la idea.
C1Don't take the credit; I was the one who had the idea.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: medalla
Question 1 of 2
Which phrase correctly uses 'medalla' to describe the highest prize in the Olympics?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Old Italian word 'medaglia', which itself traces back to the Latin word 'metallum' (metal). It originally referred to a small metal coin or object, evolving into the sense of an award.
First recorded: 15th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'medalla' and 'medallón'?
'Medalla' is the standard word for an award (like a sports prize). 'Medallón' usually refers to a larger, decorative piece of jewelry or a very large, commemorative medal.