Part of Speech

The word "vela" is a noun.

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈβela/

Translation Options into English

• Candle
• Sail (nautical context)

Meaning and Usage

The word "vela" has two primary meanings in Spanish: 1. Candle: A wax cylinder or block with a wick, used for lighting. 2. Sail: The fabric attached to a mast on a boat or ship for harnessing wind to propel it.

In general usage, "vela" is commonly used in both oral and written contexts. It is frequently encountered in discussions related to lighting, celebrations (like birthdays), or nautical terminology. The frequency of use will depend on the context, with candles being more common in everyday contexts and sails in nautical discussions.

Example Sentences

1. La vela se apagó antes de que pudieran cantar cumpleaños.
   "The candle went out before they could sing happy birthday."

2. El barco levanta la vela para aprovechar el viento.
   "The boat raises the sail to take advantage of the wind."

Idiomatic Expressions

The word "vela" often appears in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are some notable examples:

1. Estar en vela
   "To be on watch" (in the context of being alert or vigilant).
   "Toda la noche estuvimos en vela esperando noticias."
   "We were on watch all night waiting for news."

2. No dejar vela en río
   "To not leave a candle in a river" (to take precautions or not leave any loose ends).
   "Antes de salir de viaje, no dejemos vela en río."
   "Before going on our trip, let's not leave any loose ends."

3. A la luz de la vela
   "By candlelight" (referring to doing something in a romantic or old-fashioned way).
   "Cenamos a la luz de la vela en un restaurante acogedor."
   "We had dinner by candlelight in a cozy restaurant."

4. Por la vela
   "By the candle" often used to imply something is done with little visibility or under uncertain conditions.
   "Tomé decisiones por la vela, sin certeza alguna."
   "I made decisions by candlelight, without any certainty."

Etymology

The word "vela" originates from the Latin "vīla," meaning "a cloth" or "piece of fabric," which refers to the material used for making sails. The meaning related to candles evolved from this term as well, likely due to their similar form.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Para "vela" (candle): candela, luz. - Para "vela" (sail): tela, lona.

Antonyms: - Para "vela" (candle): apagado (extinguished). - Para "vela" (sail): ansia (sail-less).

This comprehensive information should help you understand the term "vela" in various contexts and its significance in the Spanish language!