Vallas

Vallas is the plural form of the Spanish noun valla and functions as a general term for barriers or enclosures. In its core sense, a valla denotes a barrier, fence, hedge, or other structure that marks boundaries, protects property, or separates spaces such as gardens, fields, construction sites, or roadsides. The word can describe fences made from wood, metal, plastic, or mixed materials, and the plural vallas refers to multiple such barriers. A related use covers outdoor advertising signs, with valla publicitaria meaning a roadside billboard.

Beyond fencing, vallas appear in urban and agricultural contexts where access control or demarcation is needed. The term is common in everyday speech across Spanish-speaking regions, and phrases like vallado (the act of fencing) or vallado perimetral (perimeter fencing) are related derivatives.

In athletics, vallas denotes hurdles used in track and field events. Competitions such as the 100 meters vallas, 110 meters vallas, and 400 meters vallas involve athletes jumping over a series of barriers arranged along the track.

Etymologically, valla derives from Latin vallus, meaning a stake, rod, or palisade used in fencing. The word has given rise to related terms such as vallado and vallado, describing fenced enclosures or protective barriers. Vallas can also be found as a surname in some Spanish-speaking communities.