morar
Lemma Details
Translation: to dwell; to reside; to live; to inhabit
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Morar comes from Latin 'morari' meaning 'to delay, to stay, to remain'. This evolved in meaning to specifically refer to staying or remaining in a place as a residence. It shares roots with English words like 'moratorium' (a temporary prohibition of an activity) and 'demur' (to object or hesitate), both of which contain the sense of delaying or staying. The semantic shift from 'delay' to 'dwell' reflects how temporary stays can become permanent residences.
Commonality: 40%
Guessability: 30%
Register: literary, formal
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think of 'morar' as related to 'moratorium' (a delay) – you're delaying your departure by dwelling in a place.
- Connect it to 'morada' (dwelling) – when you 'morar', you create a 'morada'.
- Associate with the English word 'moratorium' – both involve staying in one place for a period of time.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
While 'morar' is understood by Spanish speakers, it's less commonly used in everyday speech than 'vivir'. It appears more frequently in literary contexts, formal writing, and legal documents. In some regions, particularly in rural areas or among older generations, it may be used more commonly.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'morar' means 'to dwell/live', 'morir' means 'to die' – almost opposite meanings despite similar spelling and pronunciation.
Confused word:
Las plantas mueren sin agua.
Plants die without water.
Notes: The confusion is particularly dangerous since mistaking one for the other could completely reverse the intended meaning of a sentence.
Mnemonic: 'Morar' has an 'a' like 'habitar' (another word for living somewhere), while 'morir' has an 'i' like 'finish' (ending life).
Explanation: 'Morar' means 'to dwell', while 'demorar' means 'to delay' or 'to take time'. 'Demorar' is actually closer to the original Latin meaning of 'morari'.
Notes: The prefix 'de-' changes the meaning from permanent dwelling to temporary delay.
Mnemonic: Think of 'demorar' as 'de' (of) + 'morar' – taking time 'of' your dwelling or stay.