Portuguese · Daily Life
Chave
[/ˈʃavi/]
Key
Beginnernoun · f
Definition
A small piece of shaped metal used to lock and unlock a lock.
Pequena peça de metal usada para trancar e abrir fechaduras.
Example
Esqueci a chave de casa.
I forgot the house key.
Etymology
The word 'chave' comes from Latin 'clavis', with a similar meaning, and has undergone minimal change over the centuries.
How & Where It’s Used
'Chave' is used in both spoken and written Portuguese and is utilized in various informal and formal contexts when discussing access or security.