ficada

Ficada is a term in Brazilian Portuguese slang that refers to a casual romantic or sexual relationship with someone. The noun can designate either the relationship itself or the person involved (often a ficante, a casual partner). It usually implies a non-exclusive, non-committal arrangement, though the exact boundaries can vary by people and context.

Etymology: It comes from the verb ficar, which in colloquial use covers dating, hooking up, or simply staying together without formal commitment. The form ficada is the feminine past participle or noun form used to refer to the act or the person.

Usage: The term appears in informal conversation, music, and media. Examples include: "Ela tem uma ficada com o João" (She has a fling with João), "Foi só uma ficada" (It was just a fling). It can carry neutral, favorable, or slightly pejorative connotations depending on tone and context. In some situations, "ficar" is used to describe the act of dating casually, while "ficada" names the person or the short arrangement.

Variants and related terms: "ficante" is commonly used to denote the person who is part of a ficada or casual relationship. "Ficar" as a verb conveys the act of entering such an arrangement and can also mean simply to meet and see what happens.

Cultural notes: The concept is especially prevalent in urban Brazilian Portuguese and youth culture. Similar terms exist in other Portuguese-speaking regions, but usage and nuances can differ; in formal contexts the term may be considered informal.