Portuguese · Travel & Places
Praia
[/ˈpɾajɐ/]
Beach
Beginnernoun · f
Definition
A pebbly or sandy shore by a sea or ocean.
Margem arenosa ou pedregosa do mar ou oceano.
Example
A praia de Copacabana é famosa no mundo todo.
Copacabana beach is famous worldwide.
Etymology
The word 'praia' is derived from the Latin 'plagia', which means beach or shore, and has retained this meaning throughout Portuguese linguistic history.
How & Where It’s Used
'Praia' is mostly used informally, often in the context of leisure and tourism, and is prevalent in spoken language across coastal regions of Portuguese-speaking countries.
Cultural Note
Beach culture is central to Brazilian identity, especially in coastal cities like Rio de Janeiro.