Spanish Conversation · Level 38
74 words
Spanish word
perla
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈpeɾla/
Meaning
- feminine nounpearl
Example
Las perlas del collar son de buena calidad.
The pearls on the necklace are of good quality.
More examples
La perla natural es muy valorada.
The natural pearl is highly valued.
Core concept
A smooth, lustrous spherical gem produced by certain mollusks and worn in necklaces and earrings.
Common phrases
perla del collar
pearl of the necklace
perla natural
natural pearl
Similar words
joya: Valuable ornamental piece, often metal or gemstone, worn as jewelry for personal adornment.
cuenta: Small decorative bead, usually with a hole, used for stringing into necklaces and other accessories.
Definition in Spanish
Perla es una bola brillante producida por ciertos moluscos y apreciada como joya en collares y pendientes.
Word origin
Derived from Latin perla via Old French and other medieval Romance forms, originally naming the glossy bead formed inside oysters and similar mollusks.
Usage tips
- Spanish uses the same word for natural and cultured pearls, and the phrase 'es una perla' can be sincere praise or ironic depending on tone.
Related words
- perlinasmall pearlnoun
- perladopearlyadjective