la mecha

the wick; the fuse

→ el
phrase Rare #39,964
the wick; the fuse Usually means the wick of a candle or lamp, and can mean the fuse of an explosive. The meaning depends on context.
SP: La mecha de la vela era demasiado corta.
EN: The candle's wick was too short.

La mecha.

The fuse.

— El engaño (2026)

Encendió la mecha.

He lit the fuse.

La mecha se ha encendido.

The fuse has been lit.

— The Running Man (2025)

No conseguía encender la vela porque la mecha era demasiado corta.

I couldn't light the candle because the wick was too short.

Creo que llegó el momento de que enciendas la mecha y se la mandes de vuelta.

I think it's time for you to light the fuse and send it back.

— Por un puñado de dólares (1964)

Iré a apagar la mecha.

I'll go and put out the fuse.

— El salario del miedo (1953)