tacos
Lemma Details
Translation: tacos; Mexican dish; filled tortillas
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: The word 'tacos' is the plural form of 'taco', which comes from Mexican Spanish. The term originally referred to small explosive charges used in mining, similar to dynamite sticks. The food name may have originated from the resemblance of a folded tortilla to these small explosives. The word entered English in the early 20th century as Mexican cuisine spread northward into the United States.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 95%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'tacos' as 'tackle-os' - food you can tackle with your hands.
- Remember that authentic tacos are typically small enough to eat in a few bites, like small explosive charges (their etymological origin).
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
Tacos are a fundamental part of Mexican cuisine and culture. They vary widely by region in Mexico and have become globally popular, especially in the United States. Traditional Mexican tacos differ significantly from Americanized versions, typically using soft corn tortillas rather than hard shells, and simpler toppings like cilantro, onions, and lime rather than cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Tacos' refers to the Mexican food dish, while 'tacones' means 'high heels' (shoes).
Confused word:
Ella siempre usa tacones altos para las fiestas.
She always wears high heels to parties.
Notes: The similarity is purely coincidental; the words have different etymological origins.
Mnemonic: Remember: tacos go in your mouth, tacones go on your feet.
Explanation: Both are Mexican food items, but tacos are folded or rolled tortillas with fillings, while nachos are tortilla chips topped with cheese and other ingredients.
Confused word:
Los nachos con queso son perfectos para compartir.
Cheese nachos are perfect for sharing.
Notes: Both are popular Mexican-origin foods that have been widely adopted in international cuisine.
Mnemonic: Tacos are folded like the letter 'T', while nachos are flat like the letter 'N'.