noun
bodega
boh-DAY-guh
noun
1
A small neighborhood convenience store, especially one common in cities that sells snacks, drinks, and everyday essentials.
"She grabbed a coffee and a bagel from the bodega on the corner."
"The bodega stayed open all night selling milk, lottery tickets, and cigarettes."
2
A store or shop specializing in Latin American or Hispanic groceries.
"The bodega sold plantains, fresh cilantro, and imported spices."
3
A wine cellar or winery, especially in Spain or Latin America.
"The vineyard's bodega stored oak barrels of aging Rioja."
How to Use Bodega
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA small local corner shop, especially one selling Hispanic groceries or general convenience items.
Common pairings
corner bodega
bodega cat
run to the bodega
Word Forms
bodegas plural
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She grabbed a coffee and a bagel from the _____ on the corner.
Etymology
From Spanish bodega, going back through Latin to Ancient Greek apotheke, "storehouse" — the same root as apothecary and boutique. The word became common in New York through Puerto Rican and other Latino communities.