afilhado

Afilhado is a noun in Portuguese designating the godchild—the child for whom godparents are chosen during a baptism or christening. The masculine form is afilhado and the feminine form afilhada; the plural is afilhados for mixed or all male, and afilhadas for all female.

In religious practice, the afilhado is entrusted to the spiritual care of the padrinho (godfather) and madrinha (godmother). The godparents commit to supporting the child’s religious education, moral development, and well-being, and to standing in the baptismal promises made by the parents. The exact duties vary by tradition and family; the relationship is symbolic and personal rather than a legal obligation, and it often continues through life with involvement in rites and milestones such as confirmations and weddings.

Beyond religious contexts, the term can be used more loosely for a mentee or protegé who receives mentorship or sponsorship, though this usage is less formal and more contextual.

In Portuguese-speaking countries such as Portugal, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique, the concept is widely observed in Christian communities, particularly Catholic ones, but the term is understood across the lusophone world. The word reflects a culturally important practice of spiritual sponsorship and ongoing personal relationship between the afilhado and the godparents.