Spanish Conversation · Level 23
90 words
Spanish word
palo
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈpalo/
Meaning
- masculine nounstick
Example
El niño recogió un palo en el parque.
The boy picked up a stick in the park.
More examples
La abuela apoyó el palo de escoba en la pared.
The grandmother propped the broom handle against the wall.
Core concept
A straight thin piece of wood used for support or striking.
Common phrases
palo de madera
wooden stick
palo de escoba
broom handle
palo de golf
golf club
Similar words
palito: Small thin stick of wood used for minor tasks, stirring, or as a tiny tool.
rama: Branch that grows from a tree, with bark and smaller twigs and leaves attached.
bastón: Sturdy stick designed to support walking and bear weight while moving.
astilla: Small sharp sliver of wood broken off from a larger piece.
Definition in Spanish
Trozo alargado y delgado de madera, generalmente recto, que sirve para apoyar, golpear o sujetar; también se aplica a ramas y, por extensión, a los palos de la baraja.
Word origin
It derives from Latin palus 'stake' through Old Spanish, originally referring to a wooden post and later applied to branches, sticks used as tools, and the suits in playing cards.
Usage tips
- For a cane or walking stick Spanish prefers bastón, so palo is used more for loose sticks, branches, or informal tools.