capeador: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low-frequencySpecialized / Technical
Quick answer
What does “capeador” mean?
A bullfighter who specializes in using the cape (capa or muleta) to execute passes and maneuvers with the bull, distinct from the matador who delivers the final kill.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A bullfighter who specializes in using the cape (capa or muleta) to execute passes and maneuvers with the bull, distinct from the matador who delivers the final kill.
In a broader sense, can refer to anyone who skillfully uses a cape in a performance or ceremonial context, or metaphorically to someone who evades or maneuvers around challenges in an elegant, showy manner.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The word is equally rare and specialized in both varieties. Its recognition is tied to cultural knowledge of bullfighting, which may be slightly higher in the UK due to historical ties and tourism to Spain.
Connotations
In both varieties, it carries the connotations of its Spanish origin: traditional, skilled, dangerous, and controversial due to debates around bullfighting.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both. Most likely encountered in translations of Spanish literature, historical texts, or specialized journalism about bullfighting.
Grammar
How to Use “capeador” in a Sentence
The [ADJ] capeador [VERB] the bull with a series of [ADJ] passes.As a capeador, his role is to [VERB].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in cultural studies, anthropology, or history papers discussing Spanish or Portuguese traditions.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation outside of specific communities.
Technical
Used precisely within the terminology of tauromachy (bullfighting arts).
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “capeador”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “capeador”
- Using it as a general term for any bullfighter (it's a specific role).
- Spelling as 'capador' (which is a different, unrelated word).
- Pronouncing the final 'r' in a British context where final 'r' is often silent.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A capeador is a bullfighter who specializes in cape work. The matador is the lead bullfighter who ultimately kills the bull. Sometimes the matador also performs cape work, but 'capeador' specifies the cape-focused role.
It can be used in English, but it is a very low-frequency, specialized loanword. It is typically used in contexts directly discussing Spanish bullfighting to add local colour or precision. Most general audiences would not know the term.
It is a direct borrowing from Spanish, derived from 'capa' (cape) + the agent suffix '-ador', meaning 'one who uses a cape'.
Yes, within bullfighting history. For example, Juan Belmonte, though later a famous matador, revolutionized the art of cape work in the early 20th century. Many matadors are celebrated for their skill as capeadores during the first two stages (tercios) of the fight.
A bullfighter who specializes in using the cape (capa or muleta) to execute passes and maneuvers with the bull, distinct from the matador who delivers the final kill.
Capeador is usually specialized / technical in register.
Capeador: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkapɪˈɑːdɔː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkɑːpiˈɑːdɔːr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To play the capeador (metaphorically: to deftly avoid an issue while making a show of engaging with it).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'CAPE' + 'ador' (like 'ador' in 'adore' or the Spanish suffix for a person who does something). A person who adores/works with the cape.
Conceptual Metaphor
SKILLFUL EVASION IS CAPE WORK. (e.g., 'The politician was a perfect capeador, deftly avoiding every direct question with a flourish.')
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a capeador in a traditional corrida?