Metralla (en. Shrapnel)
/meˈtraj.a/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishSpanish
noun
Fragments of metal thrown at high speed by the explosion of a projectile.
The shrapnel caused by the bomb inflicted serious wounds on the soldiers.
La metralla causada por la bomba causó graves heridas a los soldados.
Misfortune or negative consequences of a violent altercation.
The conflict left behind much social and economic shrapnel.
El conflicto dejó a su paso mucha metralla social y económica.
Etymology
From the French 'métal', referring to the metallic nature of the fragments.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to be full of shrapnel
to be heavily damaged or affected by a conflict
estar lleno de metralla
to fall into the shrapnel
to suffer negative consequences from a situation
caer en la metralla
Related Words
bomb
Explosive device that produces an explosion.
bomba
artillery
Set of war weapons that launch projectiles.
artillería
explosion
Sudden increase in pressure that causes a blast.
explosión
Slang Meanings
To refer to a chaotic or dangerous situation.
The party turned into shrapnel when they started fighting.
La fiesta se convirtió en metralla cuando empezaron a pelear.
Unexpected expenses that arise from a problem.
That unforeseen event was shrapnel in my budget.
Ese imprevisto fue una metralla en mi presupuesto.