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illustration Duende

Duende

[doo-EN-dey]

Part of speech: noun

Origin: Spanish, late 19th century

1.

A quality of passion and inspiration.

2.

In the folklore of Spain, Portugal, Latin America, and the Philippines, a supernatural being or spirit resembling a pixie or imp.

Examples of Duende in a sentence

"The duende behind his sculptures is inspired by nature."

"The song lit a feeling of duende in her like a bright flame."

About Duende

This word comes from the Spanish phrase "dueño de casa," or "owner of the house." The current meaning of passion and inspiration makes sense if you have decorated your home with love.

Did you Know?

The duende, a mythological figure in Hispanic, Latino, and Filipino lore, is a mischievous figure who lives in people's houses — similar to the European brownie. Its full name means "the master of the house," which already signals trouble for the unfortunate houseowner harboring one of these.

illustration Duende

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