Spanish Conversation · Level 12
90 words
Spanish word
seña
Pronunciation
IPA/ˈseɲa/
Meaning
- feminine noungesture
Example
Ella me hizo una seña con la mano.
She made a gesture to me with her hand.
More examples
El comprador dejó una seña para reservar el producto.
The buyer left a deposit to reserve the product.
Core concept
Brief hand motion used to indicate someone or something.
Common phrases
dar una seña con la mano
make a hand gesture
dar una seña de reconocimiento
give a sign of recognition
pagar una seña
pay a deposit
Similar words
gesto: Deliberate body or facial movement expressing emotion or intent.
señal: Sound, light, or visual cue that conveys information or alerts.
marca: Mark placed on an object or place to identify or distinguish it.
signo: Symbol or sign that denotes or indicates a meaning, condition, or idea.
Definition in Spanish
Marca o señal que identifica a una persona, lugar u objeto; también gesto breve para indicar algo o pago entregado como señal en una compra.
Word origin
Derived from Latin signum 'mark' through Old Spanish seña, the word broadened from 'sign' to include brief hand signals and figurative signs.
Usage tips
- Hacer una seña or hacer señas refers to making a small gesture to attract attention, and learners should note that señal is the broader word for signals or signs.