ortigas
/oɾtiɡas/from spelling rules
The English phrase "stinging nettles" is translated into Spanish as ortigas.
The term refers to plants with hairy leaves that cause a tingling or stinging sensation when touched.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In most Latin American countries, the term ortiga is commonly used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The singular form is ortiga, while the plural form is ortigas.
How do you pronounce it?
/oɾtiɡas/
Did you know?
- The Spanish language has a specific verb, ortigar, which means to irritate someone persistently or to 'sting' them with annoying comments.
- In Spanish, the word ortiga is used in the idiomatic expression estás como una ortiga, which describes someone who is extremely irritable or grumpy.
- In certain Spanish-speaking culinary traditions, particularly in parts of Mexico and Central America, ortigas are not just weeds but are harvested to make medicinal soups. They are valued for their high nutritional content despite their discomforting sting.
Examples in context
- Me han picado las ortigas.I have been stung by stinging nettles.
- Cuidado con las ortigas en el camino.Watch out for the stinging nettles on the path.
- Las ortigas me han picado las piernas.The stinging nettles have stung my legs.
- Hay muchas ortigas en este jardín.There are many stinging nettles in this garden.
Example conversation
Daniel and Sofía are hiking through a field.
- DanielSofía, no camines por ahí.Sofía, don't walk over there.
- Sofía¿Por qué? ¿Qué hay?Why? What is there?
- DanielEl suelo está lleno de ortigas.The ground is full of stinging nettles.
- SofíaGracias por avisarme, Daniel.Thanks for letting me know, Daniel.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
