Duende
Noun
- A quality of passion and inspiration.
- (In the folklore of Spain, Portugal, Latin America, and the Philippines) A supernatural being or spirit resembling a pixie or imp.
Example Sentences
“The duende behind his recycled-material sculptures is inspired by the ocean.”
“The flamenco dancers expressed duende through their movements across the ballroom.”
“My grandmother told me so many stories about the duende when I visited her during summer.”
Word Origin
Spanish, late 17th century
Why this word?
The duende, a mythological figure found in Latin American, Spanish, and Filipino lore, is a mischievous figure that features in stories ranging from merely playful to downright terrifying. However, the Spanish loanword is also a romantic word meaning “a quality of passion and inspiration.” Artists, designers, writers, creators, dancers — all are inhabited by the spirit of duende.
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