embrulhada

Embrulhada is a feminine noun in Portuguese, derived from the verb embrulhar, which means to wrap or enfold. The core sense refers to something that has been wrapped, typically a package, parcel, or bundle prepared for shipment or storage. The term can also denote the act or result of wrapping.

In culinary usage, embrulhada designates a dish in which ingredients are wrapped in leaves, dough, or another covering and then cooked. Variants exist across regions, such as embrulhada de peixe or embrulhada de carne, where the filling is encased before preparation.

Figuratively, embrulhada is used to describe a difficult, delicate, or awkward situation. Expressions such as entrar numa embrulhada or meter-se numa embrulhada convey being involved in trouble or a troublesome dilemma.

Regional notes and related terms: the word is common in both Portugal and Brazil, with subtle nuances in meaning and usage. Embrulhada typically refers to the wrapped item or the situation depending on context, while embrulho refers to the wrap itself, and embrulhar is the verb meaning to wrap up or bundle. The term can appear in informal speech, journalism, and literature, reflecting its versatility in everyday Portuguese.