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scintilla

spark

noun sheen-TEEL-lah Rare

Origin: From Latin scintilla, spark.

Usage Note

Scintilla is used both literally (a spark from fire or metal) and figuratively for a glimmer of hope or intelligence: una scintilla di speranza. Its plural is regular: le scintille. The word entered English directly as 'scintilla', meaning a tiny trace.

Examples

"Una scintilla ha acceso il fuoco."

Natural Translation

A spark ignited the fire.

Literal Translation

A spark has lit the fire.

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