fofo

Fofo is a Portuguese word used as an adjective to describe softness, fluffiness, or appealing charm. The masculine singular form is fofo, the feminine singular form is fofa; the masculine plural is fofos and the feminine plural is fofas. Although primarily descriptive, fofo is also commonly used in affectionate or endearing contexts.

In everyday usage, fofo can refer to texture and feel (for example, a soft pillow or a fluffy blanket) as well as to people or things that are considered cute or lovable. Typical examples include phrases like “O travesseiro é fofo” (The pillow is soft/foamy) and reactions such as “Que fofo!” or “Ela é uma pessoa fofa” (She is a sweet/cute person).

Geographic and stylistic notes suggest that fofo is widely used in Brazilian Portuguese in informal speech and media to convey warmth or charm. In European Portuguese, the term is understood similarly, though some contexts may emphasize physical softness rather than affective cuteness.

Related terms include fofura (cuteness or sweetness) and diminutives such as fofinho/fofinha, which convey affectionate intensification. Overall, fofo is a versatile, everyday word in the Portuguese lexicon for describing softness, cuddliness, and pleasant charm.