dique
1. An embankment or barrier constructed to prevent flooding, or to contain water
The dyke was reinforced after the heavy rains.
O dique foi reforçado após as chuvas intensas.
2. A ditch or watercourse used for drainage or irrigation
The farmer dug a dyke to irrigate the fields.
O fazendeiro cavou um dique para irrigar os campos.
3. In geology, a sheet-like body of igneous rock that cuts across existing rock formations
The geologist identified a basalt dyke in the rock formation.
O geólogo identificou um dique de basalto na formação rochosa.
4. Offensive slur term; derogatory term for a lesbian (highly offensive and considered hate speech)
This usage is offensive and should be avoided.
Este uso é ofensivo e deve ser evitado.
The primary meaning refers to engineering and water management infrastructure, particularly important in low-lying regions like the Netherlands and parts of Brazil prone to flooding. The offensive slur meaning is considered hate speech and should never be used. In modern usage, many prefer the spelling 'dike' in American English to avoid associations with the offensive term.
Related Idioms & Phrases
put one's finger in the dyke (attempt to stop a small problem before it becomes larger)
hold back the dyke (resist or prevent a flood of something)
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →