estalo
/isˈta.lu/
The Portuguese word for 'smack' is estalo.
If you specifically want to say 'to smack in the face', use the phrase dar um tapa na cara.
Meaning: to slap someone (verb)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Portugal, estalo is a term often used to describe the sound of a smack or a slap.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /isˈta.lu/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- In Brazil, if someone says they had an estalo, they might not mean they were hit, but rather that they had a sudden, brilliant idea or a moment of sudden realization.
- In a culinary context, estalo can describe the popping sound of corn kernels as they turn into popcorn.
- The verb estalar can also describe the sound of joints cracking, such as when you pop your knuckles or your neck.
Examples in context
- O professor deu um tapa na mesa para chamar a atenção dos alunos.The teacher smacked the desk to get the students' attention.
- A irmã deu um tapa no irmão quando ele a provocou.The sister smacked her brother when he teased her.
- Ele deu um tapa na bunda do colega de time.He smacked his teammate's butt.
Example conversation
Felipe and Mariana are arguing about a prank.
- FelipeVocê quase me fez cair!You almost made me fall!
- MarianaFoi só uma brincadeira, Felipe.It was just a joke, Felipe.
- FelipeSe fizer isso de novo, leva um estalo.If you do that again, you'll get a smack.
- MarianaTudo bem, eu não faço mais.Alright, I won't do it anymore.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry estalo, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
