copita: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1formal/informal
Quick answer
What does “copita” mean?
A small glass, typically used for serving sherry or other fortified wines.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small glass, typically used for serving sherry or other fortified wines.
A small, stemmed drinking vessel specifically associated with Spanish wine culture; by extension, can refer to a small drink of sherry or brandy served in such a glass.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More likely understood in UK due to closer cultural ties with Spain and sherry consumption. In US, may be seen as a specific foreign term.
Connotations
UK: evokes traditional pubs, aperitifs, Spanish cuisine. US: may evoke niche wine bars or fine dining.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but higher in UK contexts discussing Spanish food/drink.
Grammar
How to Use “copita” in a Sentence
[serve/pour] + [drink] + [into] + copitadrink + [from] + a copita[order/request] + a copita + [of sherry/brandy]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in hospitality/tourism marketing for Spanish-themed venues.
Academic
Rare, potentially in cultural studies or food anthropology papers.
Everyday
Used by enthusiasts of Spanish cuisine or fortified wines.
Technical
Used in sommelier/sherry production contexts to denote a specific glass shape for nosing and tasting.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “copita”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “copita”
- Using 'copita' for any small glass (e.g., for juice or water).
- Mispronouncing as /ˈkɒpɪtə/ (stress on first syllable).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a loanword from Spanish, used in English contexts, especially when discussing Spanish drinks and culture.
No, it is not standard. 'Copita' is strongly associated with sherry and brandy. Use 'nosing glass', 'Glencairn glass', or 'whiskey tumbler' for whiskey.
A copita has a stem and often a tulip-shaped bowl to concentrate aromas for sipping. A shot glass is stemless, with straight sides, designed for quickly consuming a measured volume.
In British English: /kɒˈpiːtə/ (ko-PEE-tuh). In American English: /koʊˈpiːtə/ (koh-PEE-tuh). Stress is on the second syllable.
A small glass, typically used for serving sherry or other fortified wines.
Copita is usually formal/informal in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to have a copita (to have a small drink of sherry)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think COPITA = COP a little drink in a Spanish tavern. COPI(es) TA(pa)s? You need a copita for your tapas.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTAINER FOR EXPERIENCE (A copita of sherry is a small, refined experience)
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'copita' most specifically designed for?