cartera
Lemma Details
Translation: wallet; purse; portfolio; briefcase; handbag
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from 'carta' (letter, paper) with the feminine suffix '-era' indicating a container. The root 'carta' comes from Latin 'charta' meaning 'paper, document'. The English cognate 'charter' shares this Latin origin. The semantic evolution from 'container for papers' to 'wallet/purse' reflects how these items were originally used to carry documents and later money.
Commonality: 85%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'carta' (letter) + '-era' (container) = 'container for papers/cards'
- Associate with 'carte' in credit card - where you keep your cards
- Picture carrying your 'cards' in a 'cartera'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'cartera' is commonly used to refer to women's wallets or purses, while 'billetera' or 'cartera' might be used for men's wallets. In government contexts, 'cartera' also refers to a minister's portfolio or department.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Cartera' means wallet or portfolio, while 'carpeta' means folder or binder. They look and sound similar but have different meanings.
Notes: Both words derive from 'carta' (letter/paper) but developed different specialized meanings.
Mnemonic: 'Cartera' has 'carte' like 'card' - where you keep cards and money. 'Carpeta' has 'carp' like 'paper' - where you keep papers.
Explanation: 'Cartera' is a wallet or portfolio (feminine noun), while 'cartero' is a mailman or postman (masculine noun).
Notes: Both relate to 'carta' (letter) but in different ways - one stores papers/cards, the other delivers them.
Mnemonic: 'Cartera' ends in 'a' (typically feminine) for an object, while 'cartero' ends in 'o' (typically masculine) for a person who delivers 'cartas' (letters).