Noun (feminine)
/mariˈposa/
"Mariposa" primarily refers to a butterfly, a flying insect known for its colorful wings and metamorphosis from caterpillar to adult. It is used in various contexts, including general discussion about nature, in educational settings, and in the cultural context, such as art and literature. The word is frequently used in both oral and written forms, often associated with beauty, transformation, and nature.
The term is commonly used in everyday conversation, children's literature, and educational contexts.
Las mariposas vuelan de flor en flor buscando néctar.
The butterflies fly from flower to flower searching for nectar.
En el jardín hay muchas mariposas de diferentes colores.
In the garden, there are many butterflies of different colors.
La mariposa es un símbolo de transformación y libertad.
The butterfly is a symbol of transformation and freedom.
While "mariposa" is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions, it can have symbolic meanings in various phrases, particularly in relation to beauty and lightness. Here are a few expressions that involve its figurative aspects:
Mariposa de verano
Summer butterfly – Refers to someone who flits from one thing to another, not staying in one place for long.
Ella es como una mariposa de verano, siempre buscando nuevas aventuras.
She is like a summer butterfly, always looking for new adventures.
Cazar mariposas
To catch butterflies – Used metaphorically to refer to someone trying to grasp fleeting or elusive goals.
No podemos estar cazando mariposas; necesitamos enfocarnos en nuestras metas reales.
We can't be catching butterflies; we need to focus on our real goals.
Mariposa en el estómago
Butterfly in the stomach – Refers to the feeling of nervousness or excitement, especially before an important event.
Tenía mariposas en el estómago antes de dar su discurso.
I had butterflies in my stomach before giving my speech.
The word "mariposa" comes from the Latin "mariposa," which itself derives from "picta," meaning painted, referring to the butterfly's colorful wings. The etymology reflects the relationship between beauty and the nature of the butterfly.
Synonyms: - Polilla (moth, in certain contexts) - Lepidóptero (lepidopteran - the scientific term)
Antonyms: - Insecto sin alas (wingless insect) - Gusano (worm)
In summary, "mariposa" is a versatile word with rich connotations in Spanish, associated with beauty, transformation, and nature, reflecting both everyday and cultural significance.