capoeira

American  

[kap-oo-air-uh] / ˌkæp uˈɛər ə /

noun

1. a dance form incorporating martial arts elements, originating in Brazil as a system of physical discipline and movement.

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capoeira British  

/ ˌkæpʊˈeɪrə /

noun

1. a movement discipline combining martial art and dance, which originated among African slaves in 19th-century Brazil

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Etymology

Origin of capoeira

First recorded in 1925–30; from Brazilian Portuguese; of uncertain origin; perhaps a transferred use of capoeira “cultivated area that has reverted to forest or scrub” (referring to the martial art that originated in gatherings held by enslaved and rural people), from Tupi kaápaũ (equivalent to kaá “forest, scrub” + puera “that which once was”); perhaps from Umbundu (a Bantu language spoken in southern Angola) kapwila “a blow, beating”

Explanation

Capoeira is an acrobatic Brazilian martial art. The rocking movements and handstands of capoeira distinguish it from most other martial art forms. Black Brazilians have practiced this traditional form of self defense since at least the 18th century. Capoeira was created by enslaved Africans and became more widely popular in Brazil after their emancipation in 1888. The combination of fierce fighting, dance-like movements, and acrobatics caught on worldwide — some people even credit capoeira with being an influence on break dancing. The Tupi roots of capoeira are ka'a, "forest," and paũ, "round," or area of low vegetation where enslaved Brazilians would hide.

Example Sentences

He needs to see to compete in capoeira martial arts competitions and surf on the weekends, his mother said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 4, 2026

They can only get there via a tour, navigating a maze of narrow alleyways as residents go about their daily lives while stopping to visit local artists or see a capoeira show.

From Barron's • Mar. 10, 2026

Then it adopted moves from break dancing, samba, capoeira, frevo — whatever was around.

From Seattle Times • May 14, 2024

The dancers also tumble slowly, as in capoeira, showing fluid control rather than momentum and daring.

From New York Times • Jan. 24, 2024

As the leader of his group of friends, who call themselves the Fire Gang, he hopes capoeira will help them realise their dreams of becoming a professional musical group.

From Reuters • Nov. 10, 2021