lava-louças
The Portuguese word for dishwasher is lava-louças.
You can use the specific compound word lava-louças or the descriptive phrase máquina de lavar louça.
Meaning: machine (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word lava-louças is a compound formed from the verb lavar (to wash) and the noun louças (dishes or crockery).
Which one should you use?
máquina de lavar louça is a common alternative way to refer to a dishwasher.
Did you know?
- The word louça comes from the same root as the English word 'porcelain', reflecting the historical use of fine ceramics in Portuguese homes.
- If you ask for a máquina de lavar, a person might think you are asking for a washing machine for clothes instead of a dishwasher.
- In Brazil, you will more frequently hear people call it simply a máquina, as the context of the kitchen makes the meaning clear.
Examples in context
- A máquina de lavar louça é um eletrodoméstico indispensável para muitos.The dishwasher is an essential household appliance for many.
- Preciso comprar uma nova lava-louças para minha casa.I need to buy a new dishwasher for my house.
- A lava-louças está quebrada.The dishwasher is broken.
- Coloque os pratos na lava-louças.Put the plates in the dishwasher.
- Precisamos comprar uma lava-louças nova.We need to buy a new dishwasher.
Example conversation
Felipe and Camila are in their kitchen.
- FelipeCamila, a lava-louças está pronta?Camila, is the dishwasher ready?
- CamilaSim, Felipe, acabei de desligar.Yes, Felipe, I just turned it off.
- FelipeÓtimo, vou guardar os copos.Great, I will put the glasses away.
- CamilaEu guardo os pratos.I will put the plates away.
