mozo
Lemma Details
Translation: young man; waiter; porter; servant; lad; boy
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Old Spanish 'moço', possibly derived from Latin 'musteus' meaning 'fresh' or 'new'. The term evolved to describe young males and later expanded to refer to various service occupations. The feminine form 'moza' refers to a young woman or female servant.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 20%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of a 'mozo' as someone with 'moxie' (energy and determination) - typically young men have these qualities.
- Associate 'mozo' with 'motion' - waiters and porters are always in motion, serving customers.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in restaurants and cafés, 'mozo' is commonly used to refer to a waiter. In Argentina and Uruguay, it's the standard term for waiter, while in Spain 'camarero' is more common. The term also carries historical significance as it was used to refer to young servants or workers in various contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Moso' is a misspelling of 'mozo'. The correct spelling is with 'z'.
Notes: This is a common spelling error for non-native speakers.
Mnemonic: Remember 'moZo' has a Z for Zealous service.
Explanation: 'Moco' means 'mucus' or 'snot', while 'mozo' refers to a young man or waiter.
Confused word:
El niño tenía el moco colgando de la nariz.
The child had mucus hanging from his nose.
Notes: These words differ by just one letter but have completely different meanings.
Mnemonic: MoZo serves at a restaurant, while moCo comes from your nose.