añejo
Lemma Details
Translation: aged; old; vintage; mature; well-seasoned
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from the Latin 'anniculus' meaning 'one year old', which comes from 'annus' (year). The Spanish word evolved with the diminutive suffix '-ejo'. This shares the same Latin root as English words like 'annual', 'anniversary', and 'perennial'. The concept of aging or maturing over time is central to the word, particularly in contexts of wine, spirits, and food products where aging is valued.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Prefiero el tequila añejo al tequila blanco.
I prefer aged tequila to white tequila.
Este queso añejo tiene un sabor más intenso.
This aged cheese has a more intense flavor.
Guardamos algunas botellas de vino añejo para ocasiones especiales.
We keep some bottles of vintage wine for special occasions.
Es una tradición añeja que se remonta a siglos atrás.
It's an old tradition that dates back centuries.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'añejo' as 'an-year-o' - something that has aged for years.
- Connect it to 'anniversary' - both relate to the passage of years.
- Visualize an oak barrel with the word 'añejo' stamped on it, aging fine spirits.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'añejo' often carries positive connotations, especially in relation to alcoholic beverages like tequila, rum, and wine, where aging improves quality and flavor. It's a mark of quality and prestige in these products. In Mexican culture specifically, 'añejo' tequila is highly valued and must be aged for at least one year in oak barrels to earn this designation.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both words relate to age, 'añejo' typically refers to aged products or traditions, while 'anciano' specifically refers to elderly people.
Confused word:
Mi abuelo es un anciano de noventa años.
My grandfather is an elderly man of ninety years.
Notes: 'Añejo' has positive connotations of quality through aging, while 'anciano' is more neutral, simply describing advanced age in people.
Mnemonic: 'Añejo' is for things (like wine), 'anciano' is for people (like grandparents).
Explanation: 'Añejo' emphasizes the aging process and maturation, often implying improvement with age, while 'antiguo' simply means 'old' or 'ancient' without necessarily implying improvement.
Confused word:
Encontraron un antiguo templo maya en la selva.
They found an ancient Mayan temple in the jungle.
Notes: 'Añejo' is more commonly used for food and drink, while 'antiguo' is more general.
Mnemonic: Think of 'añejo' for aged consumables, 'antiguo' for old objects and structures.