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Bitácora means logbook — a common term in Beautiful Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: March 6, 2026

Beautiful Spanish

Bitácora

noun • /[bee-TA-ko-ra]/

logbook

Example:

Anotó todo en su bitácora.

He wrote everything in his logbook.

🧠 What does Bitácora mean?

A 'bitácora' is a special type of notebook or record-keeping document, traditionally used by sailors to log important information about a voyage, such as the ship's course, speed, weather conditions, and events. The term has expanded to refer to any journal or log that systematically records observations, progress, or activities over time, particularly in fields like aviation, research, or even personal development. It implies a detailed and structured account of events, often serving as a historical record or a tool for reflection and analysis.

📚 Extra examples

  • El capitán anotaba cada detalle importante en la bitácora del barco.
    The captain noted every important detail in the ship's logbook.
  • Los científicos llevan una bitácora detallada de sus experimentos.
    Scientists keep a detailed log of their experiments.
  • Escribir en una bitácora personal puede ayudar a procesar experiencias.
    Writing in a personal journal can help process experiences.
  • La bitácora de vuelo registra toda la información del viaje aéreo.
    The flight log records all the information from the air journey.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'bitácora' originates from the Arabic 'bitaqah', meaning 'letter' or 'document', which in turn likely derives from Greek 'byssós' meaning 'fine linen' or 'papyrus', the material on which ancient documents were written.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "Bitácora"

Synonyms: diario, registro, cuaderno de bitácora, libreta de notas
Opposites: improvisación, desorden

🔍 See more beautiful spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'logbook' in Spanish?
The Spanish translation for 'logbook' is 'bitácora'.
How do you pronounce 'Bitácora' in Spanish?
The pronunciation of 'Bitácora' is bee-tah-KOH-rah. The emphasis is on the third syllable.
How do you use 'Bitácora' in a sentence?
A 'bitácora' is used to refer to a log or journal. For instance, 'El piloto revisó la bitácora de vuelo antes de despegar' (The pilot reviewed the flight log before taking off).
What is the English translation of 'Bitácora'?
The English translation of 'Bitácora' is 'logbook'.
Does 'Bitácora' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'bitácora' is a feminine noun. It changes for number: singular is 'bitácora' and plural is 'bitácoras'.
Is 'Bitácora' common in everyday Spanish?
While its original meaning related to nautical logs, the word 'bitácora' is understood in contexts involving record-keeping, journals, or logs in various fields. Its commonality depends on the specific context, being more frequent in technical or formal settings.
Does 'Bitácora' have slang or double meanings?
The word 'bitácora' does not typically have slang or double meanings in contemporary Spanish. Its usage remains largely tied to its primary definition of a log or journal.
Is 'Bitácora' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The core meaning and usage of 'bitácora' as a logbook or journal are consistent across Spain and Latin America. Regional variations in vocabulary are more common with everyday objects or concepts.

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