The word hilacha is a noun.
The phonetic transcription of hilacha using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /i̞ˈlat͡ʃa/.
The word hilacha can be translated into English as: - thread - strand - fiber
Hilacha refers to a small piece or fragment of thread or fiber. It is commonly used to describe the loose threads that may hang from clothing, textiles, or other fabric items. The term is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, though it may be more commonly encountered in spoken language when discussing clothing and sewing issues. In general, the word is not especially common, but it can arise in the context of fashion, sewing, or craft discussions.
Me encontré una hilacha en mi camiseta.
(I found a thread on my t-shirt.)
Ella cortó la hilacha que colgaba del pantalón.
(She cut the strand that was hanging from the pants.)
Las hilachas de la manta le daban un aspecto desordenado.
(The fibers of the blanket gave it a messy appearance.)
While hilacha may not form many idiomatic expressions on its own, it can be part of a few common phrases or figurative expressions in Spanish. Below are some relevant examples where it transitions into a broader meaning:
No tiene una hilacha de dignidad.
(He doesn't have a thread of dignity.)
Echar en hilachas.
(To tear something to threads.)
This expression often means to dismantle or ruin something thoroughly.
Tener hilo y hilacha.
(To have thread and strand.)
This phrase is often used to indicate having everything required to accomplish a task.
Una hilacha que no se puede ignorar.
(A thread that cannot be ignored.)
This expression signifies an issue that is too important or persistent to overlook.
Al final, él quedó sin una hilacha de credibilidad.
(In the end, he was left without a thread of credibility.)
Después del debate, la propuesta fue echada en hilachas.
(After the debate, the proposal was torn to threads.)
No se puede hacer un vestido sin hilo y hilacha.
(You can't make a dress without thread and strand.)
The word hilacha originates from the Spanish noun hilo, which means "thread." The addition of the diminutive suffix -acha signifies a smaller or lesser form. Hence, hilacha can be understood as a small piece of thread.
This energetic dissection of the word "hilacha" explores its linguistic elements, contextual relevance, idiomatic usages, and rich etymological background.