mechones
/met͡ʃones/from spelling rules
The English phrase wisps translates to Spanish as mechones.
The word mechones is most commonly used to describe wisps or locks of hair, often appearing in the phrase mechones de pelo (wisps of hair). In formal, scientific or technical contexts, the term Filamentos may be used instead to describe wisps of something.
Which one should you use?
While mechones is the plural form for multiple wisps, the singular form mechón refers to a single wisp or lock of hair.
How do you pronounce it?
/metʃones/
Did you know?
- While mechón refers to hair, the word mecha refers to a candle wick or a fuse for an explosive.
- If you are talking about 'wisps' of clouds or smoke in a poetic sense, a Spanish speaker might prefer the word jirones over mechones.
- The verb mechar is often used in hair styling to mean 'to highlight' or to create 'wisps' of color through dyeing techniques.
Examples in context
- El viento dispersó los filamentos de humo que emergían de la chimenea.The wind scattered the wisps of smoke emerging from the chimney.
- El cabello rubio de la niña se deslizaba entre mis dedos en hebras suaves y sedosas.The blonde girl's hair slipped through my fingers in soft and silky wisps.
- Ella tiene unos mechones de pelo rubio.She has some wisps of blonde hair.
- Se recogió los mechones de pelo con un clip.She pulled her wisps of hair back with a clip.
Example conversation
Elena is getting ready for a photo shoot.
- JavierElena, tienes unos mechones de pelo sueltos.Elena, you have some loose wisps of hair.
- Elena¿De verdad? No los había notado.Really? I hadn't noticed them.
- JavierDéjame ayudarte a arreglarlos.Let me help you fix them.
- ElenaGracias, Javier, eres muy amable.Thanks, Javier, you are very kind.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
