estilhaço

An estilhaço is a fragment, typically of glass or ceramic, that breaks off from a larger piece. The word comes from the Portuguese verb "estilhaçar," meaning to shatter or splinter. When an object made of brittle material like glass or porcelain is subjected to force, it can break into multiple irregular pieces. These individual pieces are referred to as estilhaços. The size and shape of estilhaços can vary greatly depending on the nature of the impact and the material itself. Sharp edges are common, making them a potential hazard. In contexts like explosions or impacts, estilhaços can be propelled at high speeds, posing a risk of injury. The term is also used more generally to describe any small, broken fragment of a brittle substance.