nozzles

[/ˈnɑːzəlz/]
nounpl: nozzles
bicos
1. A short tube or spout, often tapering, on the end of a pipe or hose for controlling and directing the flow of a liquid or gas
The garden hose has several different nozzles for watering plants.
A mangueira do jardim tem vários bicos diferentes para regar plantas.
2. The forward-pointing part of a rocket or missile from which exhaust gases are ejected
The rocket's nozzles expelled hot gases at high velocity.
Os bicos do foguete expeliam gases quentes em alta velocidade.
3. A conical or cylindrical projection used to direct or regulate flow in machinery or equipment
The fuel injector nozzles in the engine must be cleaned regularly.
Os bicos injetores de combustível no motor devem ser limpos regularmente.
In Brazil, 'bicos' is the everyday term for garden hose nozzles and spray attachments, while 'bocais' is more technical. The word 'bico' literally means 'beak' or 'mouth,' making it an intuitive term for any spout-like projection. In the USA, nozzles are commonplace household items, especially for gardening and car washing.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
spoutstipsjetsnosesprojections

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
bicos
Most common term used in Brazil for hose nozzles and spray nozzles
General Brazilian
bocais
Alternative term used for rocket nozzles and technical applications
São Paulo
bicos
Standard term in industrial and commercial contexts
Portugal
bocais
Preferred term in Portugal for various types of nozzles

Related Words

hosenozzlesprayjetadaptersprinkler

Related Idioms & Phrases

turn up the nozzle - aumentar a pressão/intensidade
adjust the nozzles - ajustar os bicos
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