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

Part of Speech

The word molinete is a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription of molinete in the International Phonetic Alphabet is [moliˈnete].

Translation Options into English

• Paddlewheel
• Windmill
• Pinwheel (in a diminutive sense)

Meaning and Usage

Molinete refers to a type of rotating mechanism, often associated with windmills or waterwheels. It can also specifically describe a wind-generated device, such as a pinwheel or a paddle wheel in nautical contexts. In the broader sense, it is used to denote any structure or device that operates by harnessing wind or water power, or it can refer to a rotating toy.

• Frequency of Use: The term is relatively common in both oral and written contexts, particularly in technical fields, leisure activities, and discussions involving marine or mechanical engineering.
• Usage in Oral vs. Written Context: It tends to be used equally in both settings, depending on the context.

Example Sentences

1. El molinete de viento en el jardín gira con la brisa.
   The windmill in the garden turns with the breeze.

2. Los barcos antiguos usaban un molinete para aprovechar la energía del agua.
   Ancient ships used a paddlewheel to harness the energy of the water.

3. El niño estaba feliz girando su molinete de papel en el parque.
   The child was happy spinning his pinwheel in the park.

Idiomatic Expressions

The word molinete isn't often found as a core component in idiomatic expressions, but in certain contexts, it can be associated with various phrases, especially in nautical terms or playful contexts.

Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions

1. "En el mar, no hay nada que un molinete no pueda mejorar."
   "At sea, there is nothing that a paddlewheel can't improve."

2. "Los sueños son como un molinete, girando en direcciones inesperadas."
   "Dreams are like a pinwheel, spinning in unexpected directions."

3. "Como un molinete, la vida siempre encuentra la forma de seguir adelante."
   "Like a windmill, life always finds a way to move forward."

Etymology

The word molinete derives from the Spanish word "molino," which means "mill." The suffix "-ete" is a diminutive that often implies a smaller or more endearing form, hence, "little mill" or "small rotor."

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms:
• Rueda de paletas (paddlewheel)

• Turbina (turbine)

• Antonyms:

• Estático (static)

In various contexts, synonyms would vary, especially when considering nautical versus mechanical usages or even dimensions in toys.