Spanish word

mapa

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈmapa/

Meaning

  • masculine nounmap

Example

Necesito un mapa para llegar al museo.

I need a map to get to the museum.

Illustration for mapa (map)

More examples

¿Dónde puedo conseguir un mapa del metro?

Where can I get a subway map?

Core concept

Regional map with labels, scale bar, and compass rose indicating cities and roads.

Common phrases

  • mapa del metro

    subway map

  • mapa turístico

    tourist map

  • mapa en línea

    online map

Similar words

plano: Precise architectural or city plan showing room layouts or street grids to scale.
guía: Informational booklet for travelers with maps, routes, and destination details.
atlas: Collection of maps in book form, often with indexes and explanatory text.
croquis: Simple, rapid sketch indicating a route or spot without scale or fine detail.

Definition in Spanish

Dibujo o esquema que representa un territorio o un lugar para indicar rutas, posiciones y referencias geográficas.

Word origin

Spanish mapa derives from Latin mappa 'cloth' through Romance-language forms, shifting from a drawn cloth to a depiction of geographic territory.

Usage tips

  • Spanish speakers commonly contrast mapa for city or regional maps with plano for building or interior plans, so specifying mapa de la ciudad or plano del museo clarifies the request.

Related words

Word lists with this word