celo
Lemma Details
Translation: zeal; jealousy; fervor; ardor; heat; rut; estrus
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'zelus', which came from Greek 'zēlos' meaning 'zeal, jealousy, or fervor'. The English words 'zeal' and 'jealousy' share this same root, making them cognates of the Spanish 'celo'. The semantic evolution shows how intense devotion (zeal) can transform into possessive vigilance (jealousy), both representing forms of passionate concern.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'celo' as related to 'seal' - like sealing something off from others out of jealousy.
- Connect it to 'zealous' in English, which shares the same root and similar meaning of intense devotion.
- Remember 'celo' as the 'cell' where you lock up what you value most out of jealousy or protection.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish culture, 'celo' often appears in discussions about relationships and emotions. The plural form 'celos' is more commonly used when referring to jealousy in romantic contexts. In zoology and veterinary contexts, 'celo' refers specifically to the estrus or heat period in female animals.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Celo' means zeal or jealousy, while 'cielo' means sky or heaven. They differ by just one letter but have completely different meanings.
Confused word:
El cielo está despejado hoy.
The sky is clear today.
Notes: The pronunciation is also slightly different: 'celo' (SEH-lo) vs 'cielo' (see-EH-lo).
Mnemonic: 'Cielo' has an 'i' which points up to the sky; 'celo' has no 'i' and stays grounded in earthly emotions.
Explanation: 'Celo' is a Spanish word for zeal or jealousy, while 'cello' is a musical instrument (violoncello), spelled the same in Spanish and English.
Notes: In Spanish, 'cello' is sometimes written as 'chelo' to match pronunciation.
Mnemonic: A 'cello' has double 'l's like the double strings on the instrument; 'celo' has a single 'l' like a single-minded focus.