"Ovillo" typically refers to a rounded mass of yarn, thread, or similar material that is wound into a ball-like form. It could also imply a bundle of any elongated objects. The word is commonly and frequently used in contexts related to textiles, knitting, or crafting. It is fairly common in both oral and written contexts, particularly in discussions about crafts or sewing.
El ovillo de lana está en la mesa.
"The ball of yarn is on the table."
Necesito un ovillo más grande para terminar el proyecto.
"I need a larger ball of yarn to finish the project."
Ella perdió el ovillo y ahora no puede continuar tejiendo.
"She lost the ball of yarn and now she can't continue knitting."
While "ovillo" is not widely used in many idiomatic expressions, it can be metaphorically associated with phrases related to tangles or complexities due to its physical attributes as a round mass. Here are some relevant expressions:
Hacer un ovillo de problemas.
"To make a ball of problems."
This expression implies that a situation or issue has become complex or tangled.
Desenredar el ovillo.
"To unravel the ball."
This refers to solving or clarifying a complicated situation or issue.
No te enredes en el ovillo.
"Don’t get tangled in the ball."
This is a cautionary phrase advising someone not to complicate matters.
The word "ovillo" comes from the diminutive form of "ovo," which is derived from "ovo," meaning "egg." This etymology relates to the rounded shape of a ball of yarn resembling an egg.
Madeja (skein)
Antonyms:
These synonyms convey similar meanings related to rounded forms or collections of thread, while the antonyms indicate a state where things are not tangled.