"Estela" is primarily used in the context of the trails left by ships, boats, and other moving objects in water. It can also refer figuratively to a path or echo left by someone's actions. The frequency of use is moderate; it is commonly used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in nautical discussions, literature, and metaphorical expressions.
La estela del barco se puede ver desde la costa.
The wake of the boat can be seen from the shore.
Cuando pasa un cometa, deja una estela brillante en el cielo.
When a comet passes, it leaves a bright tail in the sky.
Su estela de éxitos es admirable.
His trail of successes is admirable.
In Spanish, "estela" can appear in various idiomatic expressions, often implying the residual effects of actions or achievements:
La artista dejó una estela en el mundo del arte.
The artist left a trail in the art world.
Seguir la estela de alguien.
To follow someone's wake.
El joven empresario sigue la estela de su mentor.
The young businessman follows the wake of his mentor.
Estela de incertidumbre.
Trail of uncertainty.
Las decisiones del gobierno han dejado una estela de incertidumbre en la población.
The government's decisions have left a trail of uncertainty in the population.
Estela de fama.
Trail of fame.
The word "estela" comes from the Latin "stella," meaning "star." It originally referred to the brightness associated with stars and by extension, the trails or marks left by objects in movement, evoking the imagery of light and direction.
Synonyms: - Rastro (trace) - Huella (footprint) - Senda (path)
Antonyms: - Omitir (omit) - Desaparecer (disappear)
This comprehensive overview of "estela" provides a clear understanding of its meanings, uses, and relevance in both literal and figurative contexts.