Abafado

The Portuguese word 'abafado' (pronounced ah-bah-FAH-doo) describes an environment or situation that is stifling, suffocating, or oppressive due to heat, humidity, or lack of ventilation. It evokes a feeling of discomfort, where the air is heavy, thick, and difficult to breathe. It can also apply metaphorically to situations where emotions are suppressed, or secrets are kept, creating a sense of tension and unease. The term suggests a closed-in feeling, lacking freshness or a sense of release.

Abafado meaning with examples

• The small, crowded room was absolutely abafado with the windows closed on a summer day, making it difficult to breathe comfortably. The air hung thick and heavy with humidity, amplifying the oppressive heat. We quickly decided to open the windows despite the noise outside, to get some fresh air flowing. This abafado atmosphere quickly became unbearable for all in attendance.
• After the heavy rain, the greenhouse became abafado, trapping the moisture and heat inside. The plants seemed to wilt slightly under the intense, humid conditions, and even the humans inside found the air difficult to manage. We needed to improve airflow for better ventilation to solve the issue. The temperature was simply too intense to stay comfortable for long.
• The meeting felt abafado; everyone was hesitant to speak openly about the impending layoffs, creating a tense silence in the room. The emotions of uncertainty and anxiety weighed heavily on the atmosphere, and the air itself seemed to thicken with unspoken fears. It was apparent there were suppressed feelings between everyone. Even small talks seemed tough.
• Entering the old, unventilated attic felt abafado, with the air thick with dust and the scent of old papers. Sunlight could hardly penetrate through the small windows, making it dark and stuffy. The air became so stuffy with the accumulation of dirt and the lack of any circulation and flow. You could really feel how abafado the room was.