techo
“techo” means “roof” in Spanish. It has 3 different meanings depending on context:
roof
📝 In Action
Necesitamos arreglar el techo antes de que llueva.
A1We need to fix the roof before it rains.
El gato siempre se sube al techo de la casa.
A2The cat always climbs onto the roof of the house.
ceiling
📝 In Action
La lámpara cuelga del techo de la sala.
A1The lamp hangs from the ceiling of the living room.
El techo es demasiado bajo; casi puedo tocarlo.
A1The ceiling is too low; I can almost touch it.
limit, cap
Also: upper bound
📝 In Action
Han puesto un techo al precio de la gasolina.
B2They have put a cap on the price of gasoline.
Siento que he tocado techo en esta empresa; ya no puedo ascender más.
C1I feel like I've hit the ceiling in this company; I can't be promoted any further.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: techo
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'techo' in its figurative meaning, referring to a limit?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
The word 'techo' comes from the Latin word *tegulium*, which meant 'covering' or 'roofing.' This is related to the older Latin verb *tegere*, meaning 'to cover' or 'to protect.'
First recorded: 13th century (in written Spanish)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I distinguish between 'roof' and 'ceiling' in Spanish since both are 'techo'?
Context is key! If you are talking about rain, weather, or climbing, you mean the external roof. If you are talking about lamps, height inside a room, or painting, you mean the internal ceiling.
What is the meaning of 'techo de cristal'?
This is a common phrase meaning 'glass ceiling.' It refers to an invisible barrier, usually based on gender or ethnicity, that prevents someone from rising to the highest levels in a company or profession.