copera
Lemma Details
Translation: barmaid; female bartender; female barkeeper
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from 'copa' (cup, glass) + the feminine suffix '-era' indicating a female occupation or profession. 'Copa' comes from Latin 'cuppa' (cup), which is related to English 'cup'. The '-era' suffix parallels occupational suffixes in English like '-er' (bartender). The word specifically denotes a woman who serves drinks in a bar or restaurant.
Commonality: 40%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'copa' (cup) + 'era' (female suffix) = 'the woman who handles cups/glasses'
- Imagine a woman serving 'cups' at a bar - she's the 'copera'
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Spain, the role of 'copera' is common in bars, cafés, and restaurants. The term specifically refers to women who serve alcoholic beverages, distinguishing them from general waitresses (camareras) who might serve food as well.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Copera' refers to a female bartender who serves drinks, while 'cocinera' means a female cook who prepares food.
This word:
La copera preparó unos cócteles excelentes.
The barmaid prepared some excellent cocktails.
Notes: Both are feminine occupational nouns ending in '-era', but they refer to different roles in food and beverage service.
Mnemonic: 'Copera' has 'copa' (cup/glass) in it, while 'cocinera' has 'cocina' (kitchen) in it.
Explanation: 'Copera' is the feminine form (female bartender), while 'copero' is the masculine form (male bartender).
Confused word:
El copero nos recomendó un buen vino.
The male bartender recommended a good wine to us.
Notes: These words follow the standard Spanish pattern of gender marking with -o for masculine and -a for feminine occupational nouns.
Mnemonic: 'Copera' ends in 'a' (typically feminine), while 'copero' ends in 'o' (typically masculine).