Noun
/twaˈja/
The word "toalla" refers to a piece of absorbent fabric or material used to dry oneself, typically after bathing or swimming. It can also refer to cloth used for drying dishes or hands. The term is common in both spoken and written Spanish, with a slightly higher frequency in everyday oral conversation when discussing personal hygiene or routine activities.
Necesito una toalla después de salir de la ducha.
I need a towel after coming out of the shower.
La toalla de playa es muy grande para cubrir toda la arena.
The beach towel is very big to cover all the sand.
Asegúrate de llevar una toalla extra cuando vayas a la piscina.
Make sure to bring an extra towel when you go to the pool.
The word "toalla" appears in several idiomatic expressions in Spanish:
Tirar la toalla
This expression literally means "to throw in the towel," and it refers to giving up or conceding defeat in a situation.
No debes tirar la toalla; siempre hay una solución.
You shouldn’t throw in the towel; there is always a solution.
Pasar la toalla
Used to describe when someone gives up on their responsibilities or a task.
Desde que empezó a trabajar, ha decidido pasar la toalla con los estudios.
Since he started working, he decided to throw in the towel with his studies.
Moja la toalla
This phrase can refer to being very emotional or crying extensively, akin to being soaked with feelings.
Ella siempre moja la toalla cuando escucha esa canción triste.
She always soaks the towel when she listens to that sad song.
The word "toalla" comes from the Arabic term "ṭāwal" (طَوَال), which means a cloth or towel. This word made its way into the Spanish language during the time of the Moorish occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, reflecting the influence of Arabic on Spanish vocabulary.
Servilleta (napkin, though typically used for a different context)
Antonyms:
This comprehensive breakdown covers the word "toalla" in various respects, from its basic meaning and usage to its role in idiomatic expressions and its etymological roots.