clavar

Clavar is a Spanish verb meaning to drive a nail into a surface, to fasten something with nails, or more broadly to insert or fix something firmly by piercing with a sharp object. It can also be used figuratively to indicate fixing attention or emphasis on something.

Etymology: Clavar comes from Latin clavare, related to clavus, meaning nail. The root clavi- is associated with nails and piercing tools, and the word has long been used in contexts dealing with fixing or inserting.

Usage and senses: In carpentry and construction, clavar un clavo describes driving a nail into wood or other material. In other contexts, it can describe piercing with a pointed instrument, as in clavar una daga. The verb is regular -ar in its conjugation, following standard patterns for Spanish -ar verbs.

Idiomatic and figurative uses: A common idiom is clavar la mirada, meaning to fix or lock one’s gaze on something with strong focus. The verb can also convey a sense of decisiveness or force when describing actions, depending on the surrounding context.

Examples: "Voy a clavar este clavo para fijar la repisa." "La actriz clavó la mirada en el fotógrafo." These illustrate the literal and figurative uses of the verb in everyday Spanish.

In summary, clavar denotes fixing, fastening, or piercing with a nail or similar implement, with notable figurative uses that emphasize attention or precision.