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Favela Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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favela

[fəˈvɛlə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

urban area

A favela is a type of low-income informal settlement in Brazil, characterized by densely packed makeshift houses, often built on steep hillsides. Favelas are typically lacking in basic infrastructure such as sanitation, electricity, and access to clean water.

Synonyms

shantytown, slum, squatter settlement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
favela

Favela refers specifically to the informal settlements in Brazil. It is often used in discussions about Brazilian urban development, social issues, or culture.

  • Many people in Rio de Janeiro live in favelas
  • The favela community organized a festival to celebrate their local culture
shantytown

Shantytown is used to describe a collection of makeshift homes built from scrap materials, often found on the outskirts of cities around the world. It is a more general term than 'favela'.

  • After the earthquake, many survivors were forced to live in a shantytown
  • The shantytown expanded rapidly as more people moved to the city
slum

Slum is a term with a negative connotation, often used to describe overcrowded urban areas with poor living conditions and infrastructure. It is commonly found in discussions about poverty and urban decay.

  • The government is planning to renovate the slum area
  • Many families in the slum don't have access to clean water
squatter settlement

Squatter settlement describes areas where people live without legal permission to do so, often on land they do not own. It is often discussed in legal or policy contexts concerning land rights and urban planning.

  • Officials are working on a plan to regularize the squatter settlement
  • The squatter settlement grew as more people lost their homes

Examples of usage

  • Many favelas in Rio de Janeiro offer stunning views of the city below.
  • Residents of the favela face challenges such as crime and poverty.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Favelas are often vibrant centers of culture, known for their music, art, and community spirit, exemplified in genres like samba and funk.
  • They are important in Brazil's history and identity, reflecting resilience and creativity despite socio-economic challenges.
  • Films and documentaries often highlight the life and stories within favelas, showcasing both struggles and triumphs.

Sociology

  • Residents often face issues like poverty, limited access to public services, and violence, yet many create strong communities.
  • Studies show that social networks in favelas can provide significant support and opportunities for residents, countering stereotypes.
  • Community initiatives in favelas have led to improvements in education, healthcare, and safety through local activism.

Architecture

  • Favelas are typically characterized by their informal construction, where houses are built without formal planning, often leading to unique and crowded layouts.
  • The architecture reflects a mix of cultural influences, using available materials and styles, resulting in a colorful, makeshift aesthetic.
  • Some favelas are now undergoing urbanization projects to integrate them into the city infrastructure while preserving their unique characteristics.

Global Perspective

  • While the term is specific to Brazil, similar informal settlements exist worldwide, highlighting issues of urban poverty and migration.
  • International organizations study favelas to understand urban development, social policies, and community resilience factors in the context of globalization.
  • The experience of favelas resonates with numerous urban communities globally, showcasing the universal struggle for dignity and rights.

Origin of 'favela'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from 'favela', which means 'a type of Brazilian plant' and is associated with the hills where these communities first formed.
  • The first favelas appeared in the late 19th century in Rio de Janeiro, originally built by veterans who had nowhere else to live.
  • The term has evolved to describe both the physical areas and the social struggles faced by their inhabitants.

The word 'favela' originally referred to a type of shrub found in the hills around Rio de Janeiro. Over time, it came to be associated with the informal settlements that developed in these areas. Favelas have a complex history, often originating from rural migrants seeking work in urban areas. Today, favelas are a significant part of Brazil's urban landscape, with both challenges and a strong sense of community.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,787, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.