Spanish word

semilla

Pronunciation

IPA/seˈmiʝa/

Meaning

  • feminine nounseed

Example

Guarda la semilla en un lugar seco.

Keep the seed in a dry place.

Illustration for semilla (seed)

More examples

¿Has probado semillas de sésamo en la ensalada?

Have you tried sesame seeds on the salad?

Core concept

Tiny packet containing an embryo and stored nutrients ready to sprout.

Common phrases

  • semilla de sésamo

    sesame seed

  • semilla de mostaza

    mustard seed

Similar words

grano: Occurs as a single cereal kernel that serves as a staple food.
pepita: Lies inside the flesh of a fruit as a small, firm seed.
pipa: Functions as an edible seed from sunflowers and similar plants, commonly eaten roasted or salted.
hueso: Forms the large, hard stone at the center of certain fruits.

Definition in Spanish

Elemento que contiene el origen de una planta y, por extensión, el inicio o la causa primera de algo.

Word origin

From Latin sēmen through Old Spanish, first denoting the plant seed and then extended to mean the beginning or source of something.

Usage tips

  • 'Sembrar' or 'plantar' are the verbs used for 'to sow' or 'to plant', while a verb like 'semillar' is uncommon in everyday Spanish.

Word lists with this word