ventana
Lemma Details
Translation: window; opening; vent
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'ventus' meaning 'wind', reflecting the original purpose of windows to let air flow through a building. The diminutive suffix '-ana' was added to create 'ventana', literally meaning 'little wind' or 'wind passage'. This connection to 'wind' helps understand why windows were initially functional openings for ventilation before glass became common.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 30%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Abre la ventana para que entre aire fresco.
Open the window so fresh air can come in.
Desde mi ventana puedo ver el mar.
From my window I can see the sea.
La casa tiene ventanas grandes que dejan entrar mucha luz.
The house has large windows that let in a lot of light.
Rompió la ventana con una piedra.
He broke the window with a stone.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'ventilation' which shares the same Latin root 'ventus' (wind).
- Imagine wind (viento) coming through a window (ventana).
- The 'vent' in ventana can remind English speakers of air vents, which serve a similar purpose.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In traditional Spanish architecture, windows often feature distinctive designs with wrought iron grilles (rejas) that serve both decorative and security purposes. In many Spanish-speaking countries, windows play an important role in courtship traditions, with suitors sometimes serenading their love interests beneath their windows (a practice called 'dar una serenata').
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Ventana' means 'window' while 'venta' means 'sale'. They look similar but have completely different meanings.
Notes: Both words come from different Latin roots: 'ventana' from 'ventus' (wind) and 'venta' from 'vendere' (to sell).
Mnemonic: 'Ventana' has an extra 'na' at the end - think 'window NA (North America)' to remember it refers to a physical opening.
Explanation: While 'ventana' (window) and 'viento' (wind) share the same Latin root 'ventus', they refer to different concepts.
Notes: The etymological connection helps understand why windows were originally created - to let wind/air flow through buildings.
Mnemonic: Remember that a 'ventana' lets 'viento' in - the window allows wind to enter.