Part of Speech
Noun
Phonetic Transcription
/ˈbe.ʎo/
Translation Options into English
Meaning and Usage
In Spanish, "vello" refers to the fine, soft hair that grows on various parts of the body, especially in areas where coarse hair is typically found (e.g., arms, legs, and face). It is commonly used in both medical and general contexts. The term is often contrasted with "pelo," which refers to thicker hair, such as on the head or in places with coarse hair growth.
The word "vello" is used frequently in both spoken and written Spanish, particularly in discussions related to dermatology, beauty, and personal grooming.
Example Sentences
The hair on the arms can be softer than that on the legs.
Muchas personas optan por depilar el vello facial para una apariencia más suave.
Many people choose to remove facial hair for a smoother appearance.
El vello corporal también puede ser un indicador de la salud hormonal de una persona.
Idiomatic Expressions
While "vello" may not have numerous idiomatic expressions in itself, it can be part of phrases related to beauty or grooming. Here are a few related sentences:
In spring, I like to show off my legs without hair.
Ella usa crema depilatoria para eliminar el vello de su rostro.
She uses depilatory cream to remove the hair from her face.
El vello del cuerpo, si no se cuida, puede volverse incómodo.
Body hair, if not cared for, can become uncomfortable.
La moda ahora es tener vello corporal natural, en lugar de quitarlo completamente.
Etymology
The word "vello" comes from the Latin word "vellus," which means fleece or wool. Over time, this term evolved into the modern Spanish term for fine hair.
Synonyms and Antonyms
This comprehensive examination of "vello" provides insight into its linguistic, cultural, and medical significance in Spanish language and society.