1. A thin wooden lath or strip, especially one used in construction or as a decorative element in Southwestern architecture.
Usage: regional; chiefly Southwestern U.S.; from Spanish
2. In Pueblo and Spanish Colonial architecture, a small wooden beam or pole used in ceiling or roof construction.
Usage: architectural; historical

Examples

• The old adobe house featured latillas arranged in a traditional crisscross pattern on the ceiling.
• Latillas were commonly used in Southwestern pueblo construction for centuries.
• The builder selected thin latillas to create an authentic colonial-style roof.
• The decorative latillas added character to the restored mission church.