corral
Lemma Details
Translation: corral; pen; enclosure; yard; barnyard
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Medieval Latin 'currale', derived from Latin 'currus' meaning 'chariot' or 'vehicle'. The word evolved to describe an enclosed area for animals. The English word 'corral' was borrowed directly from Spanish in the 19th century during American westward expansion, particularly in ranching contexts. The root 'curr-' relates to running or movement, as seen in English words like 'current' and 'courier'.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of cowboys 'corralling' cattle into an enclosure.
- The double 'r' in 'corral' can remind you of the fence posts used to build the enclosure.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking rural areas, especially in Latin America, corrals remain important structures for livestock management. Historically in Spain, 'corrales de comedias' were open-air theaters where plays were performed during the Golden Age of Spanish literature. The term also has significance in ranching culture throughout the American Southwest, where Spanish ranching traditions influenced American cowboy practices.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Corral' (with double 'r') means an enclosure for animals, while 'coral' (with single 'r') means the marine organism or its color.
Notes: The pronunciation differs: 'corral' has a strong rolled 'rr' sound, while 'coral' has a softer 'r'.
Mnemonic: Double 'r' in corRAL for the animal encRALosure; single 'r' in coRAL for the sea creature.
Explanation: 'Corral' is a noun for an animal enclosure, while 'correr' is a verb meaning 'to run'.
Notes: Both words share the same Latin root related to movement, but evolved into different parts of speech.
Mnemonic: Animals are contained in a corRAL, but when free they can corRER (run).