mantilla

[ man-til-uh, -tee-uh ]

noun

1. a silk or lace head scarf arranged over a high comb and falling over the back and shoulders, worn in Spain, Mexico, etc.
2. a short mantle or light cape.

mantilla

/ mænˈtɪlə /

noun

1. a woman's lace or silk scarf covering the shoulders and head, often worn over a comb in the hair, esp in Spain
2. a similar covering for the shoulders only

Word History and Origins

Origin of mantilla¹

1710–20; < Spanish; diminutive of manta

Word History and Origins

Origin of mantilla¹

C18: Spanish, diminutive of manta cloak

Example Sentences

In one, his head is thrown back in a gesture that could be interpreted as laughter or ecstasy; in another, he wears a mantilla and prays.

From Los Angeles Times

Men tend to wear suits and ties and most women wear skirts and lace mantillas on their heads, the latter a traditional sign of humility and femininity.

From New York Times

In photographs from this period, she is tangled in a nest of limbs, or in fishnets and a bright mantilla, kneeling at an invisible altar like a psychedelic bride.

From New York Times

In a church in downtown Madrid, women wearing traditional veils known as “mantillas” prayed in socially distanced pews.

From Seattle Times

In a church in downtown Madrid, women wearing traditional veils known as “mantillas” prayed in socially distanced pews.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• cloak
• curtain
• mask
• shroud