frijoles
Wordform Details
Translation: beans
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
masculinepluralIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: frijol
Translation: bean; kidney bean (noun)
Etymology: From Spanish 'frijol', which comes from the Old Spanish 'frisol', derived from Latin 'phaseolus' (bean). The Latin term ultimately comes from Greek 'phasēlos'. The word evolved differently across Spanish-speaking regions, with variations like 'frijol' common in Mexico and Central America, while 'poroto', 'habichuela', or 'judía' are used in other Spanish-speaking countries.
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- Think 'free-HOLE' - beans grow freely from holes in the ground.
- Associate with 'frigid' + 'jolly' - beans that make a jolly meal even in frigid weather.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Frijoles are a staple food in Mexican, Central American, and many Latin American cuisines. They are fundamental to dishes like 'frijoles refritos' (refried beans) and are often served as a side dish with rice. In Mexico and Central America, 'frijol' specifically refers to the common bean, while other Spanish-speaking regions use different terms for beans.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'frijol' refers to beans (especially kidney beans), 'guisante' means 'pea'. They are different legumes with different appearances and culinary uses.
Notes: In Mexican and Central American cuisine, frijoles are much more common than guisantes.
Mnemonic: Frijoles are flat (like 'frisbees'), while guisantes are round (like 'geese' eggs).
Explanation: 'Frijol' refers to beans while 'lenteja' means 'lentil'. They are different legumes with distinct shapes and cooking properties.
This word:
Los frijoles necesitan remojarse antes de cocinarlos.
Beans need to be soaked before cooking them.
Notes: Frijoles are generally larger than lentejas and require longer cooking times.
Mnemonic: Lentejas are 'lens-shaped' (which is their etymology), while frijoles are kidney-shaped.