1
: a light scarf worn over the head and shoulders especially by Spanish and Latin American women
2
: a short light cape or cloak

Examples of mantilla in a Sentence

a beautiful Spanish lady with a lace mantilla
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For more of a European flair, there’s the mantilla veil. Laura Lajiness Kaupke, Vogue, 3 Sep. 2024 Weirdest Head Gear Lana Del Rey, wearing an Alexander McQueen gown, was topped by a thorn of crowns or Spanish mantilla — or maybe both. Merle Ginsberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, diminutive of manta

First Known Use

1717, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mantilla was in 1717

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mantilla.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mantilla. Accessed 27 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

1
: a light scarf worn over the head and shoulders especially by Spanish and Latin American women
2
: a short light cape or cloak
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