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Parol

paról with stress marks

star-shaped Christmas lantern

noun pa-ROL Spanish origin Common

Usage Note

Parol is one of the most iconic symbols of Filipino Christmas — a star-shaped lantern traditionally made from bamboo and Japanese paper, representing the Star of Bethlehem. Originally derived from Spanish farol, the Giant Lantern Festival in San Fernando, Pampanga is world-famous for its elaborate parol displays.

Examples

Beginner

" Maganda ang parol sa bintana. "

Natural Translation

The lantern in the window is beautiful.

Literal Translation

Beautiful the lantern at window.

Intermediate

" Gumawa sila ng makulay na Parol. "

Natural Translation

They made a colorful star-shaped lantern.

Literal Translation

Made they of colorful that star-shaped-lantern.

Advanced

" Tuwing Disyembre, sinasabit namin ang malaking parol sa harap ng bahay upang maramdaman ang diwa ng Pasko. "

Natural Translation

Every December, we hang the big star-shaped lantern in front of the house to feel the spirit of Christmas.

Literal Translation

Every December, hang we the big lantern at front of house so-that feel the spirit of Christmas.

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