abrazo

American  

[ah-brah-thaw, -saw, uh-brah-soh] / ɑˈbrɑ θɔ, -sɔ, əˈbrɑ soʊ /

noun

Spanish.

plural

abrazos

1. an embrace, used in greeting someone.

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Etymology

Origin of abrazo

First recorded in 1625–35; derivative of abrazar “to embrace,” equivalent to a- (from Latin ad-; see ad- ( def. ). ) + brazo “arm” (from Latin bracchium ; see brace ( def. ))

Explanation

Different cultures often have different ways of greeting people. In Spain and Latin America, one way to say hello is with an abrazo, or embrace. Where some cultures use a handshake or bow to say hello, Spanish and Latin American cultures have the abrazo, a hug. Each culture has its own form of the abrazo. In Mexico, an abrazo may follow a handshake and be accompanied by a pat on the back. In Spain, an abrazo is commonly coupled with a light kiss on both cheeks. The abrazo is usually a show of affection and close social bonds, rather than a formal introduction.

Example Sentences

This dance born in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires and Montevideo is about intimacy, touch and the closeness of the abrazo, or embrace.

From New York Times • Oct. 15, 2021

Dame un abrazo papa, tal vez sea la despedida.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 27, 2020

“Ay, que me abrazo ay” is one of Savall’s many signature pieces, and he performed and recorded in different guises, usually with swinging brass.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2020

"Thank you, Pope Francis. Un abrazo muy fuerte."

From Fox News • Dec. 31, 2018

My father shook their hands and gave each one the abrazo.

From "Bless Me, Ultima" by Rudolfo Anaya