óxido
“óxido” means “rust” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
rust
Also: corrosion
📝 In Action
La bicicleta vieja está cubierta de óxido.
A2The old bicycle is covered in rust.
Tienes que quitar el óxido antes de pintar la reja.
B1You have to remove the rust before painting the gate.
El óxido ha dañado seriamente la estructura del puente.
B2The rust has seriously damaged the bridge's structure.
oxide
Also: dioxide
📝 In Action
El dióxido de carbono es esencial para la fotosíntesis.
B1Carbon dioxide is essential for photosynthesis.
El óxido de zinc se usa en muchas cremas solares.
B2Zinc oxide is used in many sunscreens.
Estamos estudiando los diferentes óxidos metálicos en clase.
C1We are studying the different metal oxides in class.
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: óxido
Question 1 of 3
How would you describe an old, brown, metal nail?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Greek word 'oxys' (meaning sharp or acid), referring to the sour taste of oxygen-based acids.
First recorded: 18th century (in modern chemical sense)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does 'óxido' only refer to iron rust?
In everyday conversation, yes, people usually mean the reddish-brown stuff on iron. However, in science, it can refer to any element combined with oxygen.
Is 'óxido' a common word?
Yes, especially when talking about maintenance, cars, or old buildings.
Is there a verb for 'to rust'?
Yes, the verb is 'oxidar'. You often use it with 'se' as 'oxidarse' (to become rusty).