How Do You Spell CORTES?

Pronunciation: [kˈɔːts] (IPA)

The word "cortes" is pronounced as /kɔrtɛz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This word refers to the legislative assembly in Spain, Portugal, and some Latin American countries. The spelling of "cortes" is derived from the Latin "curtis," meaning "court." It came into English through Old French "cort," which means a royal court or a manor house. Therefore, the spelling of "cortes" with the silent "s" reflects the word's Latin and Old French origins.

CORTES Meaning and Definition

  1. Cortes is a noun of Spanish origin that refers to a term predominantly used in the context of historical events relating to Spain and Latin America. The word has multiple meanings and contexts, each with their own specific definition.

    One of the primary definitions of cortes refers to the legislative assembly in Spain during medieval times. The cortes acted as a representative body of three estates – the nobility, clergy, and commoners – and had limited powers to advise and make decisions on matters relating to the kingdom. In this context, the cortes played a crucial role in the governance and administration of the country during those times.

    Cortes can also refer to the famous Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés who led the Spanish conquest of Mexico in the 16th century. Known for his ambitious and ruthless campaigns, Cortés played a pivotal role in the fall of the Aztec Empire and the establishment of Spanish rule in Mexico.

    Additionally, the term cortes can be used to describe historical events known as the "Cortes of..." in various Latin American countries, which denote the specific national legislatures or parliaments in those regions.

    Overall, cortes is a term with diverse meanings depending on the historical context, encompassing the medieval legislative assemblies in Spain, the conquistador Hernán Cortés, and the national legislative bodies in Latin American countries.

  2. The Spanish or Portuguese parliament, or assembly of the states, consisting of the nobility, the clergy, and representatives from cities.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CORTES

Etymology of CORTES

The word "cortes" has two distinct etymological origins, each associated with different meanings.

1. "Cortes" as the Spanish plural noun meaning "courts" or "parliaments":

The term "cortes" in Spanish comes from the Latin word "cohors" which means "enclosure", "court", or "circle". In medieval Latin, this term evolved into "curtis" or "cohortes", referring to the retinue or court of a lord or ruler. Over time, this word transformed into "cortes" in the plural form to refer to representative assemblies or parliaments in medieval Iberian kingdoms, such as the Cortes of Castile and the Cortes of Aragon.

Similar spelling words for CORTES

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