Spanish Conversation · Level 51
74 words
Spanish word
llave
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈʝaβe/
Meaning
- feminine nounkey
Example
¿Dónde está la llave?
Where's the key?
More examples
No encuentro la llave de casa.
I can't find the house key.
Core concept
Metal key used to turn a lock.
Common phrases
llave de casa
house key
llave maestra
master key
llave de paso
shut-off valve
Similar words
clave: Short code or password used to grant access or authenticate identity.
cerradura: Lock mechanism mounted on a door that receives a key to lock or unlock.
llavero: Small ring or decorative attachment used to hold and carry keys together.
pomo: Round door handle that turns to open or close a door.
Definition in Spanish
Instrumento que permite girar y accionar cerraduras; asimismo se aplica a grifos o válvulas que cortan o dejan pasar fluidos y, en sentido figurado, a lo fundamental de algo.
Word origin
From Latin clavis 'key', with the medieval sound change cl- → ll- in Spanish, retaining the sense of a device that opens locks.
Usage tips
- Context determines whether 'llave' means a door key, a wrench in compounds like 'llave inglesa', or a valve such as 'llave de paso'.