bóveda
/ˈbobeda/
The Spanish word for 'vault' is bóveda.
bóveda refers to a secure area used for storing valuables, but it can also mean an architectural vault, such as an arched ceiling or roof.
Meaning: secure area for valuables (noun)
Which one should you use?
While bóveda is a general term, bóveda de seguridad is often used to specify a high-security vault, like those found in banks. For a more formal translation of 'vault', you can use cámara acorazada.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin America, the term caja de seguridad is commonly used to refer to a vault.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈbobeda/
Did you know?
- Linguists believe bóveda may have evolved from a Gothic word meaning 'to dwell' or 'build', rather than from Latin.
- The word bóveda can be used poetically in Spanish to describe the 'vault of heaven', referring to the sky.
- Because bóveda describes any arched ceiling, a person might refer to the roof of a tunnel or a cave using the same word they would use for a bank vault.
Examples in context
- El joyero guarda las joyas en una cámara acorazada.The jeweler keeps the jewels in a vault.
- El oro está en la bóveda.The gold is in the vault.
- Abrieron la bóveda esta mañana.They opened the vault this morning.
Example conversation
Sofía and Javier are discussing the security of a local bank.
- Sofía¿Es segura la bóveda de este banco?Is this bank's vault secure?
- JavierSí, la bóveda es de alta seguridad.Yes, the vault is high security.
- SofíaMe alegra saberlo, Javier.I am glad to know that, Javier.
- JavierEs el lugar más seguro del edificio.It is the safest place in the building.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry bóveda, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bóveda, CC BY-SA 4.0.
