algodoncillo
/alɡodonˈθiʝo/
The English phrase milkweed is translated into Spanish as algodoncillo.
algodoncillo refers to the plant of the genus Asclepias.
Meaning: plant of the genus Asclepias (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a diminutive of algodón (cotton), meaning little cotton because of the plant's fluffy seeds.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of algodoncillo is algodoncillos.
How do you pronounce it?
/alɡodonˈθiʝo/
Did you know?
- Spanish speakers often associate the term algodoncillo with the Monarch butterfly, as it is the only food source for its larvae.
- The root of algodoncillo traces back to the Arabic word quṭn, a remnant of the linguistic influence of Al-Andalus on the Spanish language.
- The suffix -cillo in algodoncillo does not just mean 'small' but can also be used in Spanish to express affection or a lack of importance.
Examples in context
- El algodoncillo es una planta que resulta clave para la supervivencia de las mariposas monarca.Milkweed is a crucial plant for the survival of monarch butterflies.
- Varios investigadores están estudiando los beneficios del extracto de matacabras en la industria farmacéutica.Several researchers are studying the benefits of milkweed extract in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Las chuparrosas son esenciales para el ciclo de vida de las mariposas monarca.Milkweed plants are essential for the life cycle of monarch butterflies.
- El algodoncillo crece cerca del río.The milkweed grows near the river.
- Vi una planta de algodoncillo en el jardín.I saw a milkweed plant in the garden.
- Necesitamos más algodoncillo para las mariposas.We need more milkweed for the butterflies.
Example conversation
María and Alejandro are looking at plants in a botanical garden.
- María¿Sabes qué tipo de planta es este algodoncillo?Do you know what kind of plant this milkweed is?
- AlejandroSí, es un algodoncillo muy bonito.Yes, it is a very beautiful milkweed.
- MaríaA las mariposas les encanta.Butterflies love it.
- AlejandroEs verdad, María, es esencial para ellas.That is true, María, it is essential for them.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry algodoncillo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries algodoncillo, CC BY-SA 4.0.
