bolas: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Specialized/Technical
Quick answer
What does “bolas” mean?
A throwing weapon consisting of weights on the ends of interconnected cords, used to entangle the legs of animals.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A throwing weapon consisting of weights on the ends of interconnected cords, used to entangle the legs of animals.
In modern contexts, sometimes used metaphorically to describe something that entangles or ensnares, or in sports (e.g., boleadoras in gaucho traditions).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The word is equally rare in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes South American gaucho culture, hunting, or historical weaponry.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both dialects, encountered mainly in historical texts, anthropological discussions, or specific cultural contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “bolas” in a Sentence
[Subject] throws/uses bolas to [entangle/catch] [Object].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bolas” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The hunter attempted to bolas the rheas as they fled across the pampas.
American English
- He practiced for hours to learn how to effectively bolas a target.
adjective
British English
- The bolas technique requires considerable skill.
American English
- They demonstrated a traditional bolas throw.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in anthropology, history, or Latin American studies papers discussing indigenous hunting techniques.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Might appear in historical novels or documentaries.
Technical
Used in descriptions of traditional weapons, survival techniques, or historical reenactments.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “bolas”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “bolas”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bolas”
- Using 'bola' as a singular noun (though sometimes accepted). Treating it as a common, everyday word.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is typically treated as a plural noun (like 'scissors'), though 'a bolas' or 'a pair of bolas' can be used for the singular object.
It is borrowed from Spanish, which in turn took it from a Latin American indigenous language.
No, it is a highly specialized term. Most learners will not need it for everyday communication.
Yes, though rare. It means 'to catch or entangle with a bolas' (e.g., 'He bolased the animal').
A throwing weapon consisting of weights on the ends of interconnected cords, used to entangle the legs of animals.
Bolas is usually specialized/technical in register.
Bolas: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbəʊ.ləs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈboʊ.ləs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No common idioms.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a BOLA flying through the air and S-naring its target. BOLA + S = bolas.
Conceptual Metaphor
ENTANGLEMENT IS CAPTURE (The tool physically entangles to metaphorically capture/disable).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of bolas?