Spanish word

copal

Pronunciation

IPA/koˈpal/

Meaning

  • masculine nouncopal

Example

Compré copal para incienso.

I bought copal for incense.

Illustration for copal (copal)

More examples

El olor a copal me recordó la fiesta del pueblo.

The scent of copal reminded me of the village festival.

Core concept

Piece of fragrant tree resin burned as incense.

Common phrases

  • olor a copal

    scent of copal

  • quemar copal

    burn copal

Similar words

resina: Solid or semi-solid sticky secretion from plants and trees used for varnish, glue, and crafts.
incienso: Fragrant powder or small block burned to release scent in rooms or during rituals.

Definition in Spanish

Sustancia resinosa extraída de árboles, apreciada por su aroma al quemarse y empleada en ceremonias y artesanía.

Word origin

From Nahuatl copalli, meaning 'resin for burning' or 'incense', which Spanish borrowed to name the aromatic tree resin used in rituals and crafts.

Usage tips

  • In markets and conversations copal usually refers to the burning resin for ceremonies or home incense, so buyers mention 'para incienso' and the scent or tree when asking about varieties.

Related words

  • copalerocopal vendornoun

Word lists with this word