The word "piedra," meaning "stone" in Spanish, is spelled with five letters: p-i-e-d-r-a. The IPA phonetic transcription for "piedra" is /ˈpjeðɾa/. The first syllable "pie" is pronounced like "pee" with a soft "e" sound at the end, while the second syllable "dra" is pronounced with a soft "d" sound followed by a rolling "r" and an "a" pronounced like "ah". The correct spelling of "piedra" is essential for effective communication in Spanish.
Piedra is a Spanish noun that translates to "stone" in English. It refers to a solid, naturally occurring substance composed of minerals, often used in construction, art, or as a decorative material. Stones can vary in size, shape, and color, depending on the type and formation process.
The term "piedra" is also commonly used to describe a specific type of kidney stone. In medical contexts, it refers to small, hard mineral deposits that can form in the kidneys. These stones can cause intense pain and discomfort when they obstruct the urinary system. Medical intervention may be necessary to remove or break them down.
In Spanish-speaking folklore, "piedra" is associated with various superstitions and beliefs. It is sometimes used as a metaphorical symbol of obstacles or challenges in life, suggesting something difficult or insurmountable. Additionally, "piedra" is often used idiomatically to describe a person's lack of sensitivity or empathy, equating them to a cold, unfeeling stone.
Overall, whether referring to a geological formation, a kidney stone, or a metaphorical symbol, the term "piedra" represents the idea of a solid, mineral-based substance that carries different connotations depending on the context.
A disease of the hair characterized by the presence on the hairs of numerous, hard, nodular masses composed of fungous aggregations of Trichosporon giganteum.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "piedra" has its origins in the Latin word "petra", which means "stone" or "rock". This Latin word was derived from the Greek word "petro", which carries the same meaning. Over time, this word evolved in different Romance languages, such as Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian, leading to the creation of various words related to "piedra" and their respective meanings. In Spanish, "piedra" specifically refers to a compact, solid mineral substance that can either be a natural rock or a piece of cut stone.