English Lexicon

Picador

/ˈpi.kə.dɔːr/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #15000 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A horse-mounted bullfighter in a bullfighting event who uses a lance to provoke and weaken the bull.

    "The picador skillfully maneuvered his horse to avoid the bull's charges."
  2. 2

    A participant in a bullfight who plays a specific role in the traditional sequence of the event.

    "During the bullfight, the picador's role is crucial in setting the stage for the matador."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'picador' originates from the Spanish word 'picar', meaning 'to prick' or 'to sting'. It was adopted into English in the 19th century, primarily in the context of bullfighting, where it refers to a horse-mounted bullfighter who uses a lance to weaken the bull.

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