espejo

Espejo is a term with multiple related meanings in Spanish. The most common use is as a noun meaning mirror: a reflective surface, usually made of glass with a backing, designed to show the viewer’s image. Beyond its physical sense, espejos can refer to any device that reflects light or an image, such as a decorative wall piece or a compact used for personal grooming. In a figurative sense, espejo denotes reflection, likeness, or a standard by which something is measured, and it appears in literature and philosophy to symbolize truth, self-knowledge, or accountability.

Etymology: Espejo derives from Late Latin speculum, through Old Spanish espejo, with the modern form solidifying in the medieval to early modern period. The root is shared with cognate terms in other Romance languages, such as Portuguese espelho and French miroir, all pointing to the same idea of a reflective surface.

Geography and names: Espejo is also used as a toponym in the Spanish-speaking world. It names towns, districts, and natural features in various countries, and the word is used as a surname. The precise origin of each place name varies, but most reflect historical or cultural associations with vision, appearance, or transparency.