noun
- A spirit or goblin in Spanish folklore, often mischievous or magical in nature.
- In flamenco and Spanish art, a deep emotional power or spiritual force that inspires authentic artistic expression.
Usage: From Spanish; used in English primarily in literary and cultural contexts; Often capitalized when referring to a specific entity
Usage: Cultural/artistic term; popularized by poet Federico García Lorca; Often used metaphorically in discussions of art and performance
Examples
- In Spanish folklore, a duende might play tricks on travelers at night.
- The flamenco dancer performed with such duende that the audience was mesmerized.
- García Lorca wrote about duende as the mysterious force behind great art.
- The guitarist's duende was evident in every passionate note he played.
- Children in the village grew up hearing stories of the mischievous duende in the forest.