orfebre
Lemma Details
Translation: goldsmith; silversmith; jeweler; craftsman of precious metals
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'aurifaber', a compound of 'aurum' (gold) and 'faber' (craftsman, artisan). The English word 'goldsmith' follows a similar pattern, combining 'gold' with 'smith' (a craftsman who works with metal). The Spanish term evolved through Vulgar Latin, with the 'auri-' element transforming to 'or-' (related to 'oro', meaning gold in Spanish) and 'faber' becoming 'febre'.
Commonality: 30%
Guessability: 20%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
El orfebre creó un collar de oro con incrustaciones de piedras preciosas.
The goldsmith created a gold necklace with precious stone inlays.
La familia contrató a un orfebre para restaurar las antiguas joyas familiares.
The family hired a goldsmith to restore the old family jewels.
En el museo hay una exposición de obras de orfebres precolombinos.
In the museum, there is an exhibition of works by pre-Columbian goldsmiths.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'or' (from 'oro' meaning gold) + 'febre' (similar to 'fabricate') = someone who fabricates gold items
- Connect it to 'orpheus' (the mythological musician) + 'fabricate' to remember someone who creates beautiful things like Orpheus created beautiful music
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Latin America, orfebrería (the craft of the orfebre) has deep historical roots dating back to pre-Columbian civilizations like the Incas and Aztecs, who were renowned for their sophisticated metalwork. Colonial-era religious orfebrería is particularly valued in museums and churches throughout the Spanish-speaking world.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While an 'orfebre' works specifically with precious metals like gold and silver to create jewelry and decorative items, a 'herrero' (blacksmith) works with iron and other common metals to create functional items like tools, horseshoes, and gates.
Confused word:
El herrero forjó una reja de hierro para la ventana.
The blacksmith forged an iron grate for the window.
Notes: The distinction is primarily in the materials used and the purpose of the items created - orfebre for precious, decorative items; herrero for practical, everyday items.
Mnemonic: Remember: 'orfebre' works with 'oro' (gold), while 'herrero' works with 'hierro' (iron).