tapa
“tapa” means “tapa” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
tapa, appetizer
Also: small dish
📝 In Action
Vamos a tomar una cerveza y unas tapas.
A1Let's grab a beer and some tapas.
¿Qué tapas tienen hoy? ¿Hay patatas bravas?
A2What tapas do you have today? Are there spicy potatoes?
En Andalucía, a veces te dan la tapa gratis con la bebida.
B1In Andalusia, sometimes they give you the tapa for free with the drink.
lid, cover, cap
Also: manhole cover, book cover
📝 In Action
Cierra el bote con su tapa para que no se seque.
A2Close the jar with its lid so it doesn't dry out.
La tapa de la botella está rota.
A2The cap of the bottle is broken.
Necesito quitar la tapa de la olla para ver si el agua hierve.
B1I need to take the lid off the pot to see if the water is boiling.
heel tip, sole
Also: tap
📝 In Action
Necesito llevar estos zapatos al zapatero para cambiar la tapa.
B1I need to take these shoes to the cobbler to change the heel tip.
La tapa de mis botas ya está muy gastada.
B2The sole/heel tip of my boots is already very worn out.
Translate to Spanish
Words that translate to "tapa" in Spanish:
appetizer→book cover→cap→cover→heel tip→lid→manhole cover→small dish→✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: tapa
Question 1 of 2
Which meaning of 'tapa' is being used in the sentence: 'La tapa del bolígrafo se perdió en mi bolso.'
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'tapa' comes from the verb 'tapar' (to cover or block). This verb itself likely comes from an ancient, non-Latin root related to closing things. The food meaning is a direct extension of the 'cover' meaning, referring to the custom of covering a glass of wine with a small piece of food.
First recorded: Medieval Spanish (as a verb)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'tapa' a specific type of food?
No, 'tapa' is a concept, not a single dish. It refers to any small, savory portion of food served with a drink. It can be olives, cheese, cured meats, small sandwiches, or even miniature versions of full Spanish dishes like paella.
How do I know if 'tapa' means 'lid' or 'snack'?
Context is key! If you are in a bar or restaurant and ordering food or drinks, it means the snack. If you are talking about household items, bottles, or containers, it means the lid or cover.