Spanish word

pólvora

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈpolβoɾa/

Meaning

  • feminine noungunpowder

Example

No juegues con pólvora.

Don't play with gunpowder.

Illustration for pólvora (gunpowder)

More examples

En estas fiestas está prohibido el uso de pólvora en las calles.

During these festivals the use of gunpowder in the streets is prohibited.

Core concept

Dark granular powder bursting into sparks.

Common phrases

  • jugar con pólvora

    playing with gunpowder

  • uso de pólvora

    use of gunpowder

  • venta de pólvora

    sale of gunpowder

Similar words

polvo: Very fine particles or dust that cling to skin and surfaces.
petardo: Small handheld firecracker that produces a loud bang at celebrations.
cohete: Tube-shaped firework launched into the sky to create bright lights and loud sounds.

Definition in Spanish

Polvo químico combustible que, al inflamarse, libera rápidamente gases y energía, utilizado como propulsor o explosivo en armas y fuegos artificiales.

Word origin

From Latin pulvis/pulver 'dust', developed in Romance languages into a term for fine powder and by the Middle Ages applied to the combustible mixture used for firearms and fireworks.

Usage tips

  • The written accent distinguishes pólvora from polvo (dust), and the word is feminine (la pólvora) and usually uncountable when referring to the substance.

Word lists with this word