seminais

Seminais is the plural form of the adjective seminal in Portuguese and is used to describe ideas, works, events or developments that are original, formative or of great influence. Derived from the Latin root semen (seed), the term conveys the sense of giving rise to later growth or serving as a source for subsequent developments.

In scholarly and cultural contexts, seminai(s) often qualifies texts, studies, artistic works or movements that establish paradigms, introduce novel methods or catalyze significant change. For example, a "obra seminal" (seminal work) is one that shapes a field’s direction or vocabulary. The term can be used more broadly in everyday language to mark anything considered foundational or pioneering.

Less commonly, related senses connect to biological origins: the English adjective seminal can refer to semen or reproductive seed, and that etymological thread is echoed in Portuguese uses that emphasize origin or generative capacity rather than literal biology. The word appears in compound expressions and can surface in toponyms or surnames in Lusophone regions, though such occurrences are comparatively rare.

Usage varies by register; in formal writing it carries evaluative weight and should be applied when the claim of influence or originality is supported by historical or critical evidence.