Portuguesian: meaning, definitions and examples
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Portuguesian
[ pɔːr.tʃuˈɡiː.zən ]
language origin
The term 'Portuguesian' typically refers to something related to Portugal or its culture, often confused with 'Portuguese.' It may denote characteristics or elements associated with Portuguese language or nationality.
Synonyms
Lusitanian, Portuguese.
Examples of usage
- The portuguesian art displays vibrant colors.
- He enjoys portuguesian cuisine at the local restaurant.
- She learned a few portuguesian phrases for her trip.
- The festival showcases portuguesian music and dance.
Etymology
The term 'Portuguesian' is derived from the word 'Portuguese,' which has its roots in the Latin word 'Portucale,' referring to the municipality that eventually evolved into modern-day Portugal. The name itself is a combination of 'portus,' meaning harbor, and 'cale,' which is believed to originate from a Celtic name. Over the centuries, as Portugal emerged as a distinct nation around the 12th century, the language and cultural elements associated with it also developed. The term 'Portuguesian' might emerge in less formal contexts, referring to attributes that are Portuguese, but its usage is not as prevalent or standardized as 'Portuguese.' In academic or formal references, 'Portuguese' remains the correct term for anything pertaining to Portugal. Thus, the term 'Portuguesian' is often seen as a mistaken or colloquial variant of 'Portuguese.'