papai
/paˈpaj/
The Portuguese word for papa is papai.
papai is an informal word used to mean 'dad' or 'daddy'. It is typically used in relaxed or close-knit family settings.
Which one should you use?
While papai is an affectionate term like 'daddy' or 'papa', the word pai is the standard, neutral way to say 'father'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
papai is an affectionate and informal term used primarily by children or within family environments. In contrast, pai serves as the neutral, standard term.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In northeastern Brazil, speakers may also use painho as an endearing and informal way to address a father.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈpaj/
Did you know?
- In Brazil, papai is sometimes used by adults as a playful or flirtatious term for a romantic partner, similar to how 'baby' is used in English.
- In Brazil, the phrase pai de santo uses the word for father to describe the high priest of a Candomblé community.
- In some regional Brazilian slang, the phrase papai chegou is used by a man to announce his arrival with an air of confidence or authority.
Examples in context
- Meu papai disse não.My papa said no.This sentence shows how to use papai in a simple statement.Tatoeba #1674064 by DracoKall, translation #25533 by letsgolanguages
- Amo você, papai!I love you, daddy!
- Vamos lá, papai!Let's go, dad!
- Tô com saudades, painho!I miss you, dad!
- O papai comprou um presente.Daddy bought a gift.
- Eu amo o meu papai.I love my daddy.
Example conversation
Beatriz and Lucas are talking about their father at home.
- BeatrizO papai chegou do trabalho?Did daddy arrive from work?
- LucasSim, o papai está na cozinha.Yes, daddy is in the kitchen.
- BeatrizVou dar um abraço nele.I am going to give him a hug.
- LucasEu também vou falar com ele.I am going to talk to him too.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry papai, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
