mantilla

American  

[man-til-uh, -tee-uh] / mænˈtɪl ə, -ˈti ə /

noun

1. a silk or lace head scarf arranged over a high comb and falling over the back and shoulders, worn in Spain, Mexico, etc.

2. a short mantle or light cape.

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mantilla British  

/ mænˈtɪlə /

noun

1. a woman's lace or silk scarf covering the shoulders and head, often worn over a comb in the hair, esp in Spain

2. a similar covering for the shoulders only

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Etymology

Origin of mantilla

1710–20; < Spanish; diminutive of manta

Example Sentences

In one, his head is thrown back in a gesture that could be interpreted as laughter or ecstasy; in another, he wears a mantilla and prays.

From Los Angeles Times

Men tend to wear suits and ties and most women wear skirts and lace mantillas on their heads, the latter a traditional sign of humility and femininity.

From New York Times

In photographs from this period, she is tangled in a nest of limbs, or in fishnets and a bright mantilla, kneeling at an invisible altar like a psychedelic bride.

From New York Times

In a church in downtown Madrid, women wearing traditional veils known as “mantillas” prayed in socially distanced pews.

From Seattle Times

In a church in downtown Madrid, women wearing traditional veils known as “mantillas” prayed in socially distanced pews.

From Washington Times

Related Words

• cloak
• curtain
• mask
• shroud