caixinha

Caixinha is a term that can refer to several things, primarily in Portuguese-speaking cultures. Most commonly, it is a diminutive form of "caixa," meaning "box" or "container." This can be used literally to describe a small box, such as a jewelry box or a small container for holding items.

Beyond its literal meaning, "caixinha" also has a specific cultural significance in Brazil as a term for a tip or gratuity, particularly in the context of service industries. When a service provider, such as a waiter, hairdresser, or delivery person, receives a small extra payment above the stated price for good service, this is often referred to as a "caixinha." It is a voluntary gesture of appreciation.

In some regions, "caixinha" can also refer to a small collection of money gathered from a group for a specific purpose, such as buying a gift for someone or for a collective fund. This usage emphasizes the idea of a small, organized container for contributions.

The meaning of "caixinha" is therefore highly context-dependent, ranging from a simple descriptive term for a small box to a culturally specific term for a tip or a small pooled fund.