bolillo (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

IPA: /boˈli.ʝo/

Translation Options into English

• Bread roll
• Baguette
• White bread roll

Meaning and Usage

The word "bolillo" refers to a type of bread roll that is commonly found in Mexico and parts of Central America. It is typically a crusty, elongated roll, often served with meals or used to make sandwiches. The term is used predominantly in casual conversations and culinary contexts, making it more frequent in oral speech than in formal written contexts.

Example Sentences

1. Me gustaría un bolillo con mi sopa.

2. I would like a bread roll with my soup.

3. El bolillo es ideal para preparar tortas.

4. The bread roll is ideal for making tortas.

5. Compré unos bolillos frescos en la panadería.

6. I bought some fresh bread rolls at the bakery.

Idiomatic Expressions

The term "bolillo" is not frequently found in standard idiomatic expressions, but there are some phrases and colloquialisms that utilize the word in playful or cultural contexts in Mexico.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. Estar como un bolillo.
2. To be as hard as a bread roll. (Used to describe someone who is stubborn.)

Translation: "He is as stubborn as a bread roll."

1. No vale un bolillo.
2. To not be worth a bread roll. (Indicating something is of little value.)

Translation: "That idea isn't worth a bread roll."

1. Más caliente que un bolillo.
2. Hotter than a bread roll. (Used to describe something very desirable or difficult to get.)

Translation: "That new phone is hotter than a bread roll."

Etymology

The term "bolillo" originates from the Spanish word "bollo," which means "bun" or "roll." It has roots in various regional adaptations as bread-making techniques spread across Latin America, particularly influenced by French baguettes due to historical trade and culinary exchanges.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Bollo: Bun
• Pan francés: French bread
• Panecillo: Small bread roll

Antonyms

• Pan de molde: Sliced bread (used for sandwiches)
• Pan integral: Whole grain bread

By examining the various uses and meanings of "bolillo," one can appreciate its place in culinary practices, cultural expressions, and social interactions in Spanish-speaking contexts.