Mandil is a noun.
/mãnˈdil/
In Spanish, mandil refers to an apron, typically worn while cooking or performing other tasks that may involve getting clothes dirty. It can vary in design and function, sometimes referring to a more formal smock or even bib-style aprons used by children.
The word has a frequency of use that is fairly common in everyday speech, especially in contexts involving food preparation or crafts. It is also used in written contexts like recipes or instructions.
Ella se puso el mandil antes de comenzar a cocinar.
She put on the apron before starting to cook.
Los niños llevaban un mandil para no ensuciarse mientras pintaban.
The children wore a smock so they wouldn’t get dirty while painting.
El mandil de chef es diferente al mandil de cocina tradicional.
A chef's apron is different from a traditional kitchen apron.
The word mandil is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, but it is associated with certain phrases that emphasize readiness for work or tasks.
"Con el mandil puesto": Referring to someone who is ready to work, especially in the kitchen.
"Con el mandil puesto, está lista para la cocina."
"With the apron on, she is ready for the kitchen."
"Hacer un mandil": To prepare well (as a metaphor for being prepared).
"Cuando tienes que presentar un examen, es importante hacer un mandil."
"When you have to take an exam, it’s important to be well prepared."
"Mandil de mil colores": Referring to someone who is versatile or adapts to various situations.
"Él es como un mandil de mil colores; se adapta a cualquier grupo."
"He is like an apron of a thousand colors; he adapts to any group."
The word mandil originates from the Arabic word مِنديل (mīndīl), which means "napkin" or "towel." Over time, it evolved in the Spanish language to refer specifically to an apron or some sort of cloth protection worn during tasks.
Synonyms: - Delantal (commonly used in some regions, particularly in Spain) - Sobretodo (though this typically refers to an outer garment, it can contextually mean an apron in some areas)
Antonyms: - Desnudo (naked) - Desabrigado (unprotected)
In summary, mandil is a significant term in the culinary and craft contexts, referring to a variety of aprons used across Spanish-speaking countries. Its usage is common in both oral and written language, and it carries cultural significance in traditional cooking practices.