PICADOR Meaning and
Definition
-
A “picador” refers to an individual who participates in the traditional Spanish bullfighting spectacle, serving as one of the mounted lancers. Derived from the Spanish word “picar,” which means to prick or poke, a picador aids in weakening the bull before the matador's entrance.
The role of a picador is to confront the bull on horseback, armed with a long lance. Clad in a distinctive attire usually consisting of a traditional costume, including a hat and a jacket embellished with gold or silver trims, the picador demonstrates great skill and courage as they provoke the bull to elicit a charging response. Upon the bull's charge, the picador employs the lance to jab the animal in the neck muscles, typically aiming for the morrillo, a thickened area that supports the bull's head. This action is designed to cause the bull to lower its head in future charges, ensuring a safer and more controlled performance.
The picador's objective is dual-fold: to weaken the bull and prompt it to lower its head so that the matador, who follows the picador, can execute more precise and dramatic passes with the red cape. By inflicting wounds to the neck muscles, the picador inadvertently injures the bull, reducing its strength and agility, hence leveling the playing field between bull and matador.
While the practices and ethics surrounding bullfighting are debated, the picador remains an iconic figure within the spectacle, an integral part of the traditional Spanish bullfight, and a professional skilled in engaging with the bull, contributing to the pageantry and drama associated with this contentious cultural tradition.
Common Misspellings for PICADOR
Etymology of PICADOR
The word "picador" is derived from the Spanish word "picar", which means "to prick" or "to sting". In the context of Spanish bullfighting, a picador is a mounted lancer who uses a lance called a "pica" to weaken the bull by piercing its muscles and in turn, provoking it for the matador's later steps in the fight. The term "picador" was first introduced in the 18th century, and it is crucial to the development and progression of a bullfight.
Similar spelling words for PICADOR
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
