In Latin American Spanish, "tusa" refers to the small, sharp hairs found on some plants, such as corn husks. These hairs can cause irritation if they come in contact with the skin.
Usage:
The term "tusa" is commonly used in various Latin American countries, especially in rural areas where contact with plants like corn is more frequent. It is more commonly used in oral speech than in written context.
This word is not as common in general conversations, but can be frequently used in certain contexts where referring to the irritant nature of the small plant hairs is relevant.
Examples
Examples:
Ten cuidado al pelar el elote, las tusa pueden irritar tu piel. (Be careful when peeling the corn, the husks' hairs can irritate your skin.)
Idiomatic Expressions
Idiomatic Expressions:
While "tusa" is not a word that typically appears in idiomatic expressions, it can be used metaphorically to refer to a feeling of irritation or annoyance.
Example Sentences with Idiomatic Expressions:
Después de la discusión, me quedó una tusa con mi amigo. (After the argument, I was left feeling irritated with my friend.)
Esa situación me dejó una tusa que no me quita nadie. (That situation left me feeling annoyed, and nothing can take it away.)
Etymology
The term "tusa" comes from the Nahuatl word "tōzatl," which refers to the silk or hair of corn.