Spanish Conversation · Level 188
15 words
Spanish word
bocina
Pronunciation
IPA/boˈθina/
Meaning
- feminine nounhorn
Example
Si alguien te bloquea el paso, toca la bocina.
If someone blocks your way, honk your horn.
More examples
El conductor tocó la bocina para avisar.
The driver honked the horn to warn others.
Core concept
Automotive horn that gives a short loud blast.
Common phrases
tocar la bocina
honk the horn
Similar words
claxón: Car-installed horn operated from the steering wheel to deliver brief honks.
pito: Compact high-pitched horn or whistle that sounds a short sharp note to alert.
corneta: Ceremonial bugle-like horn used to signal or mark events with short calls.
Definition in Spanish
Dispositivo que emite un sonido fuerte y breve, instalado en vehículos para avisar o llamar la atención de conductores y peatones.
Word origin
The Spanish bocina traces to Latin buccina, a military or ceremonial trumpet, with its sense moving over time from a musical horn to a vehicle warning device.
Usage tips
- Everyday usage favors a single short honk to warn or get attention, and long or repeated honking is often perceived as aggressive or unsafe.