palma
/PAHL-mah/
palm
The 'palma' is the inner part of your hand.
📝 In Action
Me pica la palma de la mano.
A1The palm of my hand itches.
Leí mi futuro en la palma de mi mano.
A2I read my future in the palm of my hand.
💡 Grammar Points
Feminine Noun
This word is feminine. Always use 'la' or 'una' (e.g., la palma).
⭐ Usage Tips
Palm of the hand vs. Palm tree
While 'palma' means the palm of your hand, the whole tree is usually called 'palmera.' Use 'palma' for the individual leaf.
In Spanish, 'palma' can refer to the sound of rhythmic clapping.
📝 In Action
Todo el mundo empezó a dar palmas al ritmo de la música.
B1Everyone started clapping to the rhythm of the music.
El público rompió en palmas tras el concierto.
B2The audience burst into applause after the concert.
⭐ Usage Tips
The Plural Form
When talking about clapping rhythmically (like in Flamenco), we almost always use the plural form: 'dar palmas'.
Winning or achieving victory is also known as 'llevarse la palma'.
📝 In Action
Esta película se llevó la palma en el festival.
C1This movie took the prize at the festival.
💡 Grammar Points
Historical Symbolism
This meaning comes from ancient times when a palm branch was given as a symbol of victory.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: palma
Question 1 of 2
If your friend says 'Conozco Madrid como la palma de mi mano,' what do they mean?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'palma' used for both trees and hands?
Yes! It is used for the inner part of your hand and for the leaves of tropical palm trees.
Why is it plural ('palmas') for clapping?
Since you need two hands (two palms) to make the sound, Spanish speakers usually refer to the action in the plural: 'dar palmas'.