Spanish Conversation · Level 52
75 words
Spanish word
carnaval
Pronunciation
IPA/kaɾnaˈβal/
Meaning
- masculine nouncarnival
Example
Vamos al carnaval este fin de semana.
We're going to the carnival this weekend.
More examples
El ambiente del carnaval es alegre y ruidoso.
The carnival atmosphere is cheerful and noisy.
Core concept
Crowd in costume celebrating in the days before Lent.
Common phrases
entrada para el carnaval
carnival ticket
ambiente de carnaval
carnival atmosphere
Similar words
fiesta: Social gathering or party with food, music, and dancing, often for a specific occasion.
festival: Public event showcasing performances or arts, often held over several days.
desfile: Organized procession of people or floats marching along streets as a public spectacle.
verbena: Small outdoor evening fair with live music, food stalls, and casual dancing.
Definition in Spanish
Tradición festiva de origen cristiano que reúne música, baile y festejos populares antes del periodo de Cuaresma.
Word origin
Via Italian carnevale from Latin carne 'meat', the word links the feast to the coming Lenten fast.
Usage tips
- Carnaval can mean either a single parade or the whole multi-day festival, so context or adding días/actos clarifies the intended meaning.