butterfly

[/ˈbʌtərflaɪ/]
nounfemininepl: butterflies
borboleta
1. A flying insect with four colorful wings, a slender body, and three pairs of legs
The butterfly landed on the flower to drink nectar.
A borboleta pousou na flor para beber néctar.
2. A swimming stroke performed on the front with simultaneous arm movements and a dolphin kick
She swims the butterfly faster than any other stroke.
Ela nada o nado borboleta mais rápido do que qualquer outro nado.
3. A person or thing that is light, delicate, or fluttering in movement
She had the grace of a butterfly as she danced.
Ela tinha a graça de uma borboleta enquanto dançava.
In Brazilian culture, butterflies often symbolize transformation and beauty, frequently appearing in literature and folklore. The butterfly stroke (nado borboleta) is a popular competitive swimming event in both Brazil and the USA. Butterflies are commonly used as symbols of change and hope in both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
lepidopteraninsectmoth (loosely)

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
borboleta
Standard term used throughout Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
borboleta
Same as standard Brazilian Portuguese
São Paulo
borboleta
Same as standard Brazilian Portuguese
Portugal
borboleta
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; universal in Portugal

Related Words

caterpillarchrysalismetamorphosisinsectwingpollinator

Related Idioms & Phrases

butterflies in one's stomach (nervousness or excitement)
social butterfly (a person who enjoys socializing)
break the butterfly on the wheel (to use excessive force on something delicate)
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