encapotado
Lemma Details
Translation: overcast; cloudy; covered with a cloak; hooded; concealed
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from the verb 'encapotar' (to cover with a cloak, to become overcast), which comes from 'en-' (prefix meaning 'to put into') + 'capote' (cloak, hood). The word 'capote' shares roots with English 'cape' and 'cap', all stemming from Latin 'cappa' (hooded cloak). The metaphorical extension to cloudy weather reflects how clouds 'cloak' or 'hood' the sky.
Commonality: 50%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'cape' (capote) covering the sky, making it 'encapotado' (overcast).
- Imagine someone 'en-capo-tado' (in a cape totally) hiding from the sun under a cloak.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Often used in weather forecasts and descriptions. In some regions, particularly associated with the threatening appearance of storm clouds. The term can also refer to someone wearing a cloak or hood to conceal their identity, which appears in literature and historical contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'encapotado' refers to being covered with a cloak (capote) or to overcast weather, 'encapuchado' specifically means 'hooded' or 'wearing a hood' (capucha).
Notes: Both terms can refer to concealment, but 'encapuchado' is more commonly used for people wearing hoods to hide their identity, while 'encapotado' is more frequently used for weather conditions.
Mnemonic: 'Encapotado' has 'capote' (cloak) in it, while 'encapuchado' has 'capucha' (hood).