grifos
/ɡɾifos/from spelling rules
The English word 'taps' is translated into Spanish as grifos.
The term refers to devices used to control the flow of water from a pipe.
Which one should you use?
The plural form grifos is the standard term, while its singular form is grifo.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In many parts of Latin America, you may hear the word canillas used to refer to taps. In several other Latin American countries, the word llaves is commonly used to refer to water taps. In Spain, the phrase Toque de Silencio Militar can be used to express 'taps'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɡɾifos/
Did you know?
- In Argentina and Uruguay, the term canillas comes from the word canilla, which means 'shin' or 'lower leg'. This refers to the shape of the pipe extending from the wall.
- The word grifo is shared with the name of a mythical creature from Greek mythology that is part lion and part eagle. This connection comes from the bird's perceived ability to guard treasures and sources of water.
- While llaves means 'taps' in many Latin American countries, the word literally translates to 'keys'. This describes how the device 'locks' or 'unlocks' the flow of water.
Examples in context
- Durante el funeral, se escuchó el Toque de Silencio.During the funeral, "taps" could be heard.
- Cierra los grifos para ahorrar agua.Close the taps to save water.
- Los grifos de la cocina gotean.The kitchen taps are dripping.
- Necesitamos comprar dos grifos nuevos.We need to buy two new taps.
- No puedes cerrar bien los grifos.You cannot close the taps properly.
Example conversation
Lucía and Mateo are in the kitchen looking at the sink.
- LucíaMateo, los grifos no funcionan.Mateo, the taps are not working.
- MateoEs verdad, tienen una fuga.It's true, they have a leak.
- Lucía¿Puedes llamar a un fontanero?Can you call a plumber?
- MateoSí, lo haré ahora mismo.Yes, I will do it right now.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
