Vara

/ˈvɑː.rɑ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A term used in various contexts referring to a unit of measurement or specific objects, often in a cultural or historical sense.

The ancient traditions specified that a vara was equivalent to three feet in length.

In some cultures, especially within indigenous communities, 'vara' can refer to a sacred object or a ceremonial item.

The shaman blessed the vara before it was used in the ritual.

In legal contexts, particularly in the laws of certain countries, a vara may refer to a unit of land measurement.

The property was measured to be ten varas wide along the riverbank.

Spanish, from Latin 'vara', meaning 'rod' or 'staff'.

vara de hierro

iron rod, often used figuratively to denote strength.

en vara

in measure, used in discussions of land measurement.

varita

a small stick or wand, often used in magical contexts.

varado

stranded or abandoned, often used in nautical contexts.

A term used informally to describe a situation or object that is useless or ineffective.

That old car is just a vara now; it's not going anywhere.

Colloquially used to refer to someone who is incompetent.

Don't ask him for help; he's such a vara.