mandolin

[/ˈmændəlɪn/]
nounmasculinepl: mandolins
bandolim
1. A stringed musical instrument with a rounded body and typically eight strings arranged in four pairs, played with a plectrum
She learned to play the mandolin in her youth and still performs at local concerts.
Ela aprendeu a tocar bandolim na juventude e ainda se apresenta em concertos locais.
2. A kitchen tool used for slicing vegetables thinly and uniformly
Use a mandolin to slice the potatoes paper-thin for the gratin.
Use um mandolim para fatiar as batatas bem fininhas para o gratinado.
In Brazil, the mandolin (bandolim) holds significant cultural importance as a foundational instrument in choro music, a traditional genre from Rio de Janeiro. It represents a rich musical heritage dating back to the 19th century. In culinary contexts, the mandoline is essential in professional and home kitchens for precise vegetable preparation. In the USA, the mandolin has experienced renewed popularity in folk, bluegrass, and indie music scenes.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
lute (musical instrument)cittern (musical instrument)vegetable slicer (kitchen tool)

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
bandolim
Standard term used throughout Brazil for the musical instrument; also used for the kitchen tool
Rio de Janeiro
bandolim
Central to choro music tradition; deeply rooted in local folk music culture
São Paulo
bandolim
Common in both musical and culinary contexts
Portugal
bandolim
Similar usage as in Brazil; less common in traditional Portuguese folk music than in Brazilian choro

Related Words

guitarukuleleluteplectrumstringsslicerkitchen utensil

Related Idioms & Phrases

play the mandolin like a master
mandoline on the cutting board
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