VocabDictionary

papel picado

/paˈpɛw piˈkadu/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A decorative craft made out of colorful tissue paper cut into elaborate, intricate designs and patterns, traditionally hung as banners during festive occasions.

Example Sentences:
  • The courtyard was beautifully decorated with colorful strings of papel picado for the celebration.
  • She carefully unfolded the fragile sheet of papel picado to reveal the delicate floral pattern.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “papel picado”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Borrowed directly from Spanish (where it literally translates to 'chopped' or 'punched paper'). While primarily a traditional Mexican folk art of intricate paper-cutting used extensively for celebrations like the Day of the Dead, the term is also used in Portuguese-speaking contexts when discussing Latin American culture, crafts, or festive decorations.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'papel' (paper) that has been 'picado' (pecked, bitten, or punched into tiny decorative holes).

Frequently Asked Questions About “papel picado

1. What is the meaning of “papel picado” in English?

In English, papel picado (noun) is defined as: “A decorative craft made out of colorful tissue paper cut into elaborate, intricate designs and patterns, traditionally hung as banners during festive occasions.”.

2. How do you use “papel picado” in a sentence?

The courtyard was beautifully decorated with colorful strings of papel picado for the celebration.

3. What are English synonyms of “papel picado”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “papel picado”?

Borrowed directly from Spanish (where it literally translates to 'chopped' or 'punched paper'). While primarily a traditional Mexican folk art of intricate paper-cutting used extensively for celebrations like the Day of the Dead, the term is also used in Portuguese-speaking contexts when discussing Latin American culture, crafts, or festive decorations.