Banderilleros are an essential part of bullfighting. They are the assistants of the matador who help in weakening the bull by placing banderillas or colorful sticks on its back. The role of the banderilleros is to prepare the bull for the final act of the matador.
Definitions
The term banderilleros is derived from the Spanish word “banderillas,” which means small flags. Banderilleros are the bullfighters who use these small flags to weaken the bull by placing them on its back. They are also known as “picadores,” which means lancers.
Origin
Banderilleros have been an integral part of bullfighting since the 18th century. The practice of using banderillas to weaken the bull was introduced in the 1700s by Francisco Romero, a famous bullfighter from Ronda, Spain. Since then, banderilleros have become an essential part of bullfighting.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, banderilleros are “assistants to a matador in a bullfight who plant the banderillas in the bull’s shoulders.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines banderilleros as “bullfighters who place banderillas on the bull’s back.”
Associations
Banderilleros are associated with bullfighting, which is a controversial sport. While some people consider it a cultural tradition, others view it as animal cruelty.
Synonyms
The synonyms of banderilleros include picadores, lancers, and bullfighters.
Antonyms
The antonyms of banderilleros include animal rights activists and people who oppose bullfighting.
The same root words
The same root words as banderilleros include banderilla and bandera, which mean small flag and flag, respectively.
Example Sentences
- The banderilleros placed the banderillas on the bull’s back, weakening it for the matador.
- The picadores and banderilleros play an essential role in bullfighting.
- The banderilleros were criticized by animal rights activists for their role in bullfighting.
Banderilleros are an integral part of bullfighting, assisting the matador in weakening the bull before the final act. While the sport is controversial, banderilleros continue to play a vital role in the tradition of bullfighting.