Spanish word

medalla

Pronunciation

IPA/meˈðaʝa/

Meaning

  • feminine nounmedal

Example

Le dieron una medalla por su trabajo.

He received a medal for his work.

Illustration for medalla (medal)

More examples

La gimnasta lució su medalla de plata con orgullo.

The gymnast proudly displayed her silver medal.

Core concept

Flat circular metal disc with an embossed emblem and inscription.

Common phrases

  • conseguir una medalla

    get a medal

  • medalla de plata

    silver medal

  • entregar la medalla

    award the medal

Similar words

premio: Formal award given to recognize achievement or outstanding performance.
trofeo: Trophy cup or figurine presented to event winners and kept as a symbol of victory.
placa: Metal or wooden plate engraved with a name or deed and mounted for display.
insignia: Small metal or cloth badge attached to clothing to indicate rank, role, or affiliation.

Definition in Spanish

Objeto metálico, por lo general plano y circular, que se entrega como reconocimiento o premio por méritos y que suele llevar inscripción o imagen.

Word origin

From medieval Latin medalia via Old French medaille and Italian medaglia, the word derives from a term for a coinlike metal piece that later became a commemorative or reward token.

Usage tips

  • Used both for the actual physical decoration and figuratively, as in colgarse la medalla meaning to take credit for someone else's achievement.

Other meanings

  • decorationnoun

Related words

  • medallistamedalistnoun

Word lists with this word