Definition
A word, or a spoken or written unit of language that carries meaning. Also used to mean "one's word" as a promise.
Example
No encuentro las palabras para describir este momento.
Show translation
I can't find the words to describe this moment.
Etymology
From Latin *parabola*, meaning "comparison" or "speech," itself borrowed from Greek *παραβολή* (parabolḗ), from *para-* ("beside") + *ballein* ("to throw"). In Late Latin the word shifted from rhetorical comparison to simply "word" or "speech," and the form was shortened through *parabola* → *paráula* (Old Spanish) → *palabra*.
Cultural note
In Spanish, *dar la palabra* (to give one's word) and *cumplir con su palabra* (to keep one's word) are deeply valued expressions of personal honour. The phrase *¡Palabra!* on its own is used colloquially to mean "I swear!" or "Honest!" — a handy shortcut for emphasis. Note also *tener la palabra* ("to have the floor") in formal debate contexts.