encimera
Lemma Details
Translation: countertop; kitchen counter; stovetop; cooktop; worktop
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: Derived from the Spanish word 'encima' meaning 'on top' or 'above', which comes from Latin 'in' (on) + 'cyma' (summit, top). The suffix '-era' is used to form nouns that indicate place or function. The word literally means 'that which is on top' or 'the top surface', reflecting its function as a work surface in kitchens.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Limpia la encimera después de cocinar.
Clean the countertop after cooking.
La encimera de granito es muy resistente.
The granite countertop is very durable.
Dejé las llaves sobre la encimera de la cocina.
I left the keys on the kitchen counter.
Enciende la encimera para calentar la sartén.
Turn on the stovetop to heat the pan.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'encima' (on top) + '-era' (place) = 'the place on top' where you prepare food.
- Visualize placing items 'on top' (encima) of the kitchen counter.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish homes, the 'encimera' is a central element of kitchen design and functionality. Spanish kitchens often feature stone, marble, or laminate encimeras. The term can refer both to the countertop surface for food preparation and to the cooking surface (stovetop/cooktop) itself, which can sometimes cause confusion.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Encima' is an adverb meaning 'on top' or 'above', while 'encimera' is the noun referring to the physical countertop or stovetop.
Notes: The relationship between these words is helpful - 'encimera' is literally 'the thing that is on top'.
Mnemonic: 'Encimera' has the extra '-era' ending, making it the physical object, while 'encima' is just the position.
Explanation: 'Cocina' can mean both 'kitchen' and 'stove', while 'encimera' specifically refers to the countertop or cooktop surface.
Notes: In some contexts, 'encimera' can refer to the cooking surface of a stove, which can overlap with one meaning of 'cocina'.
Mnemonic: Think of 'encimera' as the specific surface, while 'cocina' is the entire room or appliance.