noun

favela

fuh-VEH-luh

Favela (noun) means a densely populated, informal urban settlement, especially in Brazil, often lacking full access to public services. Example: “The documentary follows a family living in a favela on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro.”

noun

A densely populated, informal urban settlement, especially in Brazil, often lacking full access to public services.

"The documentary follows a family living in a favela on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro."

How to use favela

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA Brazilian term for a poor, densely built urban neighbourhood, roughly similar to a slum or shantytown.

Word forms

favelas plural, Favelas plural

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The documentary follows a family living in a _____ on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro.

Etymology

Borrowed from Brazilian Portuguese favela.

Origin: Portuguese

Rhymes for favela

Ela Lela Bela Adela Leela Teela abuela Angela Pamela Sheela Daniela Arabela

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Frequently asked questions

What does “favela” mean?

The word “favela” means a densely populated, informal urban settlement, especially in Brazil, often lacking full access to public services. In plain terms, a Brazilian term for a poor, densely built urban neighbourhood, roughly similar to a slum or shantytown.

How do you pronounce “favela”?

“Favela” is pronounced fuh-VEH-luh (/fəˈvɛlə/ in IPA).

How do you use “favela” in a sentence?

Here is “favela” used in a sentence: “The documentary follows a family living in a favela on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro.”

What part of speech is “favela”?

“Favela” is a noun.

Where does the word “favela” come from?

The word “favela” comes from Portuguese. Borrowed from Brazilian Portuguese favela.

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Vocabulary lists that include favela:

Words with Portuguese origins