casa
Wordform Details
Translation: househome
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
femininesingularIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma Details
Translation: house; home; building; household
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'casa' meaning 'cottage' or 'hut'. While English 'house' comes from Germanic roots, Spanish 'casa' shares its Latin origin with English words like 'casino' (originally a small country villa) and 'cassette' (little box). The Latin 'casa' originally referred to a simple dwelling or cottage, but evolved in Spanish to become the primary word for any residential building.
Commonality: 95%
Guessability: 60%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'casa' as a 'case' where you keep all your belongings safe.
- Casa sounds like 'casing' - the outer covering or structure that protects what's inside, just like a house.
- The English word 'casement' (a window type) shares the same Latin root as 'casa'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'casa' represents not just a physical structure but also carries strong connotations of family unity and belonging. The concept of 'casa' is central to Hispanic family life, often encompassing multiple generations living together. In many Latin American countries, people commonly live in their family home well into adulthood, and family homes are often passed down through generations.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Casa' means 'house' while 'caza' means 'hunt' or 'hunting'. They sound identical but differ in spelling with 's' versus 'z'.
Notes: The pronunciation is identical in most Spanish dialects, making this a common spelling confusion.
Mnemonic: 'Casa' with 's' is where you Stay; 'Caza' with 'z' is for the hunting craze.
Explanation: 'Casa' is the noun for 'house', while 'casar' is the verb meaning 'to marry'. They are etymologically related as marriage traditionally established a new household.
Confused word:
Se van a casar en junio.
They are getting married in June.
Notes: The verb 'casar' derives from 'casa', reflecting the historical connection between marriage and establishing a household.
Mnemonic: 'Casa' ends in 'a' like 'abode', while 'casar' ends in 'r' like 'marriage' ends in 'e'.