lecho
Lemma Details
Translation: bed; bedding; layer; riverbed; seabed
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'lectus' meaning 'bed' or 'couch'. This Latin root also gave us English words like 'lecture' (originally meaning 'reading' but related to the idea of a bed because Romans would recline on couches while being read to) and 'lectern' (a reading desk). The connection between beds and reading/learning in Latin culture shows how 'lecho' connects to intellectual activities in its etymology.
Commonality: 60%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral, slightly literary
Example Usage
El río ha cambiado su lecho después de las inundaciones.
The river has changed its bed after the floods.
El enfermo no puede abandonar el lecho.
The sick person cannot leave their bed.
Colocaron un lecho de piedras antes de verter el cemento.
They placed a layer of stones before pouring the cement.
Los científicos estudian el lecho marino en busca de nuevas especies.
Scientists study the seabed in search of new species.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'lecho' as related to 'lecture' - Romans would recline on beds (lechos) while listening to lectures.
- The 'ch' sound in 'lecho' can remind you of the 'ch' in 'couch', another place to lie down.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
While 'cama' is the more common everyday word for 'bed' in Spanish, 'lecho' has a more formal or poetic connotation. It appears frequently in literature and formal contexts, especially when referring to natural formations like riverbeds or seabeds.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Lecho' means 'bed' or 'layer', while 'techo' means 'ceiling' or 'roof'. They're opposites in a way - one is what you lie on, the other is what's above you.
Notes: These words are sometimes confused because they sound similar and both relate to parts of a room or house.
Mnemonic: 'Lecho' has an 'L' like 'lie down', while 'techo' has a 'T' like 'top'.
Explanation: 'Lecho' means 'bed' or 'layer', while 'leche' means 'milk'. They differ only by their final letter.
Confused word:
Me gusta tomar un vaso de leche antes de dormir.
I like to drink a glass of milk before sleeping.
Notes: These words are easily confused by beginners due to their similar spelling and pronunciation.
Mnemonic: 'Lecho' ends with 'o' like 'pillow', while 'leche' ends with 'e' like the 'e' in 'cream'.