Espolón (en. Spur)

/es.poˈlon/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
Bony or horny appendage on the legs of some birds, used for defense or as a characteristic of certain breeds.
The rooster has spurs to fight.
El gallo tiene espolones para luchar.
Structure used in mountaineering to improve grip on snow or ice.
The spurs on his boot allowed him to climb more easily.
Los espolones de su bota le permitieron escalar con mayor facilidad.
A small horn or protrusion on the skin of certain animals.
The spur on the frog's thigh helps it jump better.
El espolón en el muslo de la rana la ayuda a saltar mejor.

Etymology

From Latin 'spolium', meaning 'skin' or 'shell'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

rooster spur
Refers to the sharp part of a rooster's legs, used in fights.
espolón de gallo
to make a spur
To suggest that a situation could become dangerous or competitive.
hacer espolón

Related Words

rooster
Farm bird, male of the hen.
gallo
stinger
Needle or thorn used for defense.
aguijón
spike
Sharp insertion that can serve as a weapon or tool.
púa

Slang Meanings

To be in shape or ready to compete.
Today I am ready to go out and play soccer.
Hoy sí tengo espolón para salir a jugar al fútbol.
To be very competitive or aggressive.
Don't get close to him, he is very aggressive and ready to fight.
No te acerques a él, tiene mucho espolón para pelear.