Meaning
spring, tongs
- mechanical spring or coil
- driving force, internal motivation, or catalyst
- plural (le molle): tongs or pincers (e.g. for ice or fireplace)
In a sentence
La molla del materasso è rotta e cigola ogni notte.
The mattress spring is broken and squeaks every night.
La curiosità è stata la molla che lo ha spinto a viaggiare.
Curiosity was the driving force that pushed him to travel.
Prendi il ghiaccio con le molle apposite, per favore.
Please pick up the ice with the proper tongs.
Word forms (2)
| Word | Word forms |
|---|---|
| molla | feminine · singular |
| molle | feminine · plural |
Usage notes
- Note the open 'o' sound: /ˈmɔl.la/.
- Figuratively means 'driving force' or 'trigger' (la molla che ha fatto scattare l'idea).