cal
/ˈkal/
cal is the Spanish word for cal (phrase).
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkal/
Did you know?
- The word cal shares an ancient ancestor with the English word 'chalk', as both derive from the Greek word for a small pebble.
- Historical Spanish architecture often used cal for 'whitewashing' buildings to reflect sunlight and keep interiors cool in hot climates.
- In Spanish, cal can be part of the term cal viva for 'quicklime', a substance so reactive it can ignite when it touches water.
Examples in context
- El arquitecto usa cal para la mezcla.The architect uses lime for the mixture.
- Necesitamos comprar cal para el jardín.We need to buy lime for the garden.
- La pared tiene restos de cal blanca.The wall has white lime remains.
Example conversation
Elena and Mateo are discussing renovations in their house.
- ElenaMateo, ¿compraste la cal para la pared?Mateo, did you buy the lime for the wall?
- MateoSí, Elena, ya tengo la cal en el coche.Yes, Elena, I already have the lime in the car.
- ElenaPerfecto, ponla en el garaje, por favor.Perfect, put it in the garage, please.
- MateoClaro, lo haré ahora mismo.Sure, I will do it right now.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry cal, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries cal, CC BY-SA 4.0.
