espiga

Espiga is a Spanish term with several related meanings across different domains. It denotes a spike or ear in botany, a peg or dowel in carpentry and engineering, and it also appears as a proper noun in astronomy and culture. The word derives from Latin spica, meaning “ear of grain.”

In botany, espiga refers to the spike-like inflorescence typical of many grasses. It is usually unbranched, with spikelets attached directly to the main axis. In crops such as wheat (trigo), barley (cebada), and oats (avena), the edible grains are produced on the espiga, the visible “ear.”

In woodworking and manufacturing, espiga denotes a peg, dowel, or pin used to join pieces or to align components. It may be inserted into corresponding holes or sockets to secure parts in place, providing a simple mechanical connection.

In astronomy, Espiga is the Spanish name for Spica (Alpha Virginis), the brightest star in the constellation Virgo. The name comes from the star’s Latin designation spica, meaning “ear of grain,” reflecting its historical association with harvest imagery.

In culture, Espiga de Oro (Golden Spike) is the main prize awarded at the Valladolid International Film Festival (Seminci), illustrating a symbolic use of the term beyond its natural and technical senses.