matador
UK[ˈmætədɔː]US[ˈmætədɔːr]
n
the person who kills the bull in a bullfight.
n
a card game in which the aim is to avoid winning certain tricks.
Etymology
the word 'matador' entered english directly from spanish in the 17th century, retaining its specific cultural meaning. its core, the spanish verb 'matar' (to kill), originates from the late latin verb 'mactāre', which carried the dual sense of 'to kill' and 'to honor, glorify', often in a sacrificial context. this etymological journey from a term for ritual sacrifice to the title for the principal performer in the ritualized spectacle of a bullfight illustrates a clear semantic evolution. the modern english meaning, therefore, logically connects the ancient concept of a ritual slayer to the specific, formalized role of the bullfighter who delivers the final blow.
Analysis
the word is a loanword from spanish, where it functions as a complete unit. it is derived from the spanish verb 'matar', meaning 'to kill', and the agentive suffix '-dor', meaning 'one who does'. the spanish 'matar' itself comes from late latin 'mactāre', meaning 'to kill, sacrifice'.
Examples
the matador elegantly waved his red cape before the charging bull.
in the final act of the corrida, the matador must execute a precise sword thrust.
we spent the evening playing a few rounds of matador.