cantar: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very rareArchaic/Historical/Technical (textile trade, equestrian)
Quick answer
What does “cantar” mean?
A provincial term for a weight or measurement, particularly for wool, equal to 100 pounds.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A provincial term for a weight or measurement, particularly for wool, equal to 100 pounds; also refers to a type of saddle or pack-saddle.
In historical contexts, a unit of weight used in various Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, equivalent to 100-120 pounds. It can also refer to a specific style of horse saddle designed for carrying loads.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is equally archaic and rare in both dialects. British sources might retain it in historical contexts of wool trade or colonial measurements. American usage would be limited to academic historical texts.
Connotations
Carries connotations of antiquity, specialised trade, and historical measurement systems.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both dialects, approaching zero in contemporary usage. More likely found in British texts detailing historical wool trade.
Grammar
How to Use “cantar” in a Sentence
[determiner] + cantar + of + [material (e.g., wool)]to weigh + [number] + cantarsVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
None in modern business. Historically, in commodity trading (wool).
Academic
Found in historical texts, studies of trade, metrology, or equestrian history.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Possible in very niche historical or reenactment contexts related to textiles or saddlery.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cantar”
- Using it as a verb.
- Assuming it is a contemporary term.
- Confusing the weight and saddle meanings.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is an extremely rare and archaic term. You will almost never encounter it in modern English.
No. 'Cantar' is a Spanish verb meaning 'to sing'. In English, it is only a noun with the historical meanings described.
They are often used as synonyms in historical contexts, both referring to a unit of weight of about 100 pounds. 'Quintal' is the more internationally recognised term.
You would only need it for reading very specific historical documents, academic research in trade history, or possibly in historical reenactment contexts.
A provincial term for a weight or measurement, particularly for wool, equal to 100 pounds.
Cantar is usually archaic/historical/technical (textile trade, equestrian) in register.
Cantar: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkæntɑː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkæntɑːr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a CAN of TAR weighing exactly 100 pounds—a 'cantar' was a similar standard weight.
Conceptual Metaphor
WEIGHT IS A CONTAINER (a 'cantar' contains/constitutes a defined amount).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'cantar'?