proa
“proa” means “bow” in Spanish (the front part of a ship or boat).
bow
Also: prow, heading
📝 In Action
El capitán se quedó parado en la proa mirando el horizonte.
A2The captain stood at the bow looking at the horizon.
Las olas golpeaban la proa del pequeño barco con fuerza.
B1The waves hit the bow of the small boat with force.
Después de muchos problemas, finalmente pusimos proa a nuestro destino.
B2After many problems, we finally headed toward our destination.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: proa
Question 1 of 3
Which part of the boat is the 'proa'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'prora', which was originally borrowed from the Ancient Greek word 'prōira'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'proa' used for cars or planes?
Generally, no. We use 'parte delantera' or 'morro' (nose) for cars and planes. 'Proa' is strictly for boats and ships, though it appears in literature for other things.
How can I remember 'proa' vs 'popa'?
Think of the word 'Prow' in English for 'Proa'. They both start with the same letters and mean the same thing!
What does 'viento en proa' mean in real life?
If you are sailing, it means the wind is blowing against you, making it hard to move forward. In a conversation, it means you are facing obstacles.