Mariposas literally translates to "butterflies". While it's a common word, its use in this song is particularly evocative and universally understood as a metaphor for the fluttery feeling of love or excitement.
In the song, Paty Cantú sings "Vuelven las mariposas" (The butterflies return), referring to that familiar sensation in one's stomach when seeing someone special. It perfectly captures the renewed spark and emotional intensity the singer feels, making it a relatable and enticing word for learners.
Have you ever been so completely head-over-heels for someone that you just can't quit them, no matter how hard you try? That's exactly what Paty Cantú is singing about in "Mariposas"! She opens by telling us how much time has passed without seeing her love: "Van 29 soles, 28 lunas sin ver tu cara" [29 suns, 28 moons without seeing your face]. She's tried to move on, even listening to almost 100 songs, but it's all meaningless without their voice and their kiss.
But then, the moment they reappear, everything changes! When they look at her, the "mariposas" [butterflies] come back, and she falls all over again. She even admits, "5 las veces, las que juré no darte mi única vida" [5 times, I swore not to give you my only life], but one "Hola mi amor" [Hello my love] and it's all forgotten. It's a fun and relatable look at that irresistible pull someone can have on you, even when you've tried to resist.