Pronunciation: [ɹˈe͡ɪə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "rayo" is a Spanish word that means "ray" or "bolt". It is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈraʝo/. The letter "r" is pronounced with a trill sound, and the letter "y" is pronounced like the English "j" sound. The letter "o" is pronounced as a short "o" sound. This word is commonly used when describing lightning or other sudden flashes of light that resemble a ray or bolt.
"Rayo" is a Spanish noun that translates to "ray" or "lightning" in English. As a term used to describe a natural phenomenon, a rayo refers to a sudden flash of light that occurs during a thunderstorm. It is a visible discharge of electricity between clouds or between a cloud and the ground. Typically accompanied by a loud thunderclap, a rayo is a visual representation of the electrical discharge that takes place within storm clouds.
In Spanish-speaking regions, a rayo is often perceived as a powerful force of nature, due to its ability to cause damage and pose a threat to living beings and structures. It is widely known for its intense brightness and rapid, zigzag shape that momentarily illuminates the dark sky. The appearance and movement of a rayo can be unpredictable, as it can strike various targets such as tall buildings, trees, or open fields.
Additionally, "rayo" is also used outside the context of natural phenomena to describe a swift or sudden occurrence or action, analogous to the speed and abruptness of lightning. This figurative usage highlights the abruptness or unexpectedness of an event, action, or statement.
Overall, "rayo" is a versatile term in both its literal and figurative meanings, describing a powerful natural phenomenon and capturing the essence of something swift and sudden.
The word "rayo" has a Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "radius", meaning a rod or a ray. In Spanish, "rayo" refers to a ray or a flash of lightning, retaining its original meaning.
