saborear
/sa.bo.ɾeˈa(ʁ)/
The English word 'relish' can be translated into Portuguese as saborear.
While 'relish' in English can refer to a condiment, the Portuguese word saborear is a verb meaning to savor or enjoy the taste of something. When referring to a condiment like relish, the word molho is a more common way to describe a liquid or chunky sauce.
Meaning: condiment or sauce added to food for a spicy or tangy flavour (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
saborear is a verb meaning to savor or enjoy the taste of something, rather than the noun for the condiment itself.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 4th syllable: /sa.bo.ɾeˈa(ʁ)/.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Do not use saborear to name a physical condiment. Use it only when you mean the action of savoring a taste. To describe a sauce or a chunky relish, use molho instead.
When do people say it?
In Brazil, a popular relish-like condiment is called vinagrete, which is made with vinegar, oil, tomatoes, onions and spices.
Did you know?
- The verb saborear can be used metaphorically to describe enjoying a non-food experience, such as savoring a moment of peace.
- The word saborear is formed by combining the noun sabor for 'flavour' with the verb suffix -ear.
- The word molho is used for everything from a thin vinaigrette to a thick gravy, meaning Portuguese has a much broader term for sauces than English does.
Example conversation
Juliana and Rodrigo are preparing hot dogs at a barbecue.
- JulianaRodrigo, você quer colocar relish no seu pão?Rodrigo, do you want to put relish on your bun?
- RodrigoSim, eu adoro saborear o lanche com esse molho.Yes, I love to enjoy the snack with this sauce.
- JulianaVou colocar uma colherada generosa para você.I will put a generous spoonful for you.
- RodrigoObrigado, Juliana! Ficou perfeito.Thank you, Juliana! It turned out perfect.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry saborear, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries saborear, CC BY-SA 4.0.
