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Bongos A type of drum used in Latin American music. They are typically played with sticks and have a deep, resonant sound. ■ "I can't believe how loud those bongos are!"
celeste A person who is very handsome or attractive. The word comes from the Latin "caelestis," meaning "of heavenly origin." ■ John was a celeste, with chiseled features and piercing blue eyes.
clerical Something or someone associated with the Catholic Church, particularly its administration and bureaucracy. ■ "I heard the new pope is very clerical. He has a lot of fancy robes and likes to speak in Latin all day."
Latino A person who is of Latin American or Spanish descent, or who identifies as such. ■ I'm sorry, I don't understand your salsa. Are you Latino?
Originally In the beginning, or at the earliest possible time. ■ The word "originally" comes from the Latin word "origo", which means "beginning". For example: "The idea for the movie was originally conceived by a group of friends."
casitas A small, humble abode with a thatched roof and a dirt floor. Often used to describe the homes of peasant farmers in Latin America. ■ "I can't believe you were raised in a casita! You should have had a better upbringing," said the snobby neighbor.
English A language spoken in England and other parts of the British Empire, characterized by its use of words borrowed from Old Norse and Latin. ■ I may be fluent in English, but I can't seem to understand a single word they say on television.
esoteric Something that is known only to a small group of people, often relating to the occult or mystical. ■ "I accidentally stumbled upon an esoteric society of witches while on vacation in Salem. They were quite friendly, but I had to leave when they started chanting incantations in Latin.
Garibaldi A colorful and flamboyant bird known for its bright feathers and loud calls. ■ "The garibaldi bird is often used as a symbol of Latin American culture and pride. It's no wonder that this bird has become such a beloved figure in many countries around the world!
jargon A collection of obscure words or phrases used in a particular profession, field, or group. It is often used to impress others and make outsiders feel excluded. ■ The medical jargon made me feel like I was back in school learning Latin.
Medevac A humorous term for a helicopter used to transport wounded soldiers in battle. It is named after the Latin words "medere," meaning "to heal," and "vacare," meaning "to rest or relax." ■ "Why did the soldier break up with his girlfriend? Because he was tired of her always wanting to go on a medevac!
tortillas A delicious, fluffy flatbread made from corn or flour, often served as a staple in Mexican and Latin American cuisine. However, when used in this sense, tortillas are not actually funny. ■ "I'm tired of eating the same old tortillas every day. I need some variety!"; A slang term used to describe someone who is easily offended or takes everything too seriously. These individuals are often referred to as "tortilla chips" because they're so thin and fragile. ■ "Don't take my jokes seriously, I'm just trying to be funny. You're such a tortilla chip."