ligado

Ligado is a term used in Portuguese as both an adjective and the past participle of ligar. It denotes that something is connected, joined, or activated. The sense can be physical (tied together), electrical (turned on), or relational (linked to someone or something). The word is common in everyday speech and technical language alike.

Etymology and senses. Ligado derives from ligar, meaning to bind, fasten, connect, or turn on. In everyday language, estar ligado can describe a device that is powered on, as in o rádio está ligado, or a connection between people or organizations, as in estar ligado a uma empresa. The opposite form des ligado refers to a state of being off, unconnected, or disengaged.

Uses in technology and daily life. In technology, ligado commonly indicates the power state of devices and circuits (ligado/desligado). Phrases such as estar ligado à internet are widespread to indicate a device is connected to the network. In practical contexts, ligado also appears in discussions of infrastructure or systems where components are linked or integrated.

Social and organizational meaning. Ligado also conveys social connections, influence, or affiliation. A pessoa bem ligada is someone with useful contacts or favorable ties. In this sense, the term highlights networks and access rather than technical status.

Notes. In Spanish, ligados implies a related but distinct usage, as the term is less central there. Desligado is the standard antonym in Portuguese for off or disconnected.