How to Say "coil" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “coil” is “rollo” — use 'rollo' when referring to a length of flexible material wound into a circular shape, such as a roll of wire, rope, or paper..
rollo
ROH-yoh/ˈro.ʎo/
Examples
Compré un rollo de alambre para mi jardín.
I bought a coil of wire for my garden.
Necesito un rollo de papel de regalo para envolver el libro.
I need a roll of wrapping paper to wrap the book.
El electricista dejó un rollo de cable en la esquina.
The electrician left a coil of cable in the corner.
Nouns for Measurement
'Rollo' is often used like a measuring unit, similar to saying 'a sheet' or 'a piece.' Remember it's always masculine: 'un rollo'.
muelle
MWEH-yeh/ˈmweʎe/
Examples
El coche hace ruido porque el muelle está roto.
The car is making noise because the spring is broken.
El coche necesita que le cambien los muelles de la suspensión.
The car needs its suspension springs changed.
Esta silla es incómoda porque se le ha roto un muelle.
This chair is uncomfortable because a spring in it has broken.
El bolígrafo tiene un pequeño muelle para que el botón funcione.
The pen has a small spring so that the button works.
The Other 'Spring'
Remember, 'muelle' is only the mechanical object or the dock. The season 'Spring' (March to May) is 'primavera' (a feminine noun).
Confusing the Season
Mistake: “Me gusta el muelle.”
Correction: This means 'I like the spring/dock'. If you mean the season, say 'Me gusta la primavera'.
Rollo vs. Muelle
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