Spanish Conversation · Level 162
29 words
Spanish word
azotar
Pronunciation
IPA/aθoˈtaɾ/
Meaning
- verbwhip
Example
El jinete azotó al caballo.
The rider whipped the horse.
More examples
La crisis económica azotó a muchas familias.
The economic crisis lashed many families.
Core concept
Violent repeated blows from a long rod or whip.
Common phrases
azotar la costa
lash the coast
azotar a alguien
lash someone
Similar words
pegar: Hits with the hand or a handheld object, producing impact, pain, or minor injury.
golpear: Delivers a forceful blow with strong impact, causing bruising or physical harm.
fustigar: Lashes the skin with a whip, producing cuts, welts, or deep abrasions.
Definition in Spanish
Infligir golpes repetidos con un látigo u otro objeto largo para causar dolor; en sentido no literal, aplicar un daño intenso o golpear con violencia, como ocurre con tormentas o crisis.
Word origin
Built from the noun azote 'whip, scourge' plus -ar, keeping the sense of striking and extending to mean to afflict or ravage in metaphorical contexts.
Usage tips
- Used literally for severe flogging and figuratively in more formal or journalistic language to mean 'ravage', whereas everyday 'hit' uses verbs like golpear or pegar.