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Glossary for Capoeira

Capoeira: 11 documented terms. Of those: concept / principle (4), equipment (3), clothing (1). Among them Roda, Berimbau, Ginga.

AbadáAbadá

Flexible white training pants worn by Capoeira practitioners.

Clothing Brazil
AtabaqueAtabaque

A traditional tall wooden drum that keeps the fundamental rhythm in a capoeira roda.

Equipment Brazil
Batizado / Capoeira BaptismBatizado

A ceremonial initiation event in Capoeira in which a new student receives their first cord and nickname.

Etiquette Brazil
BerimbauBerimbau

Single-string musical bow that dictates the rhythm, speed, and style of play in the Capoeira Roda.

Equipment Brazil
EsquivaEsquiva

A way of evading an attack in Capoeira that relies on moving the body rather than blocking.

Concept / Principle Brazil
GingaGinga

Fundamental rhythmic swinging stance transition serving as the baseline for all Capoeira moves.

Concept / Principle Brazil
MaculelêMaculelê

An Afro-Brazilian dance and combat exercise performed with wooden sticks or machetes to the rhythm of drums.

Concept / Principle Brazil
Malandragem / CunningMalandragem

A philosophy of cunning, trickery, and improvisation that is a defining element of Capoeira's style and spirit.

Concept / Principle Brazil
Mestre / Capoeira MasterMestre

The highest formal master title in Capoeira, awarded after decades of practice and deep knowledge of the art.

Title Brazil
PandeiroPandeiro

A Brazilian tambourine that adds complexity to capoeira music and speeds up its tempo.

Equipment Brazil
RodaRoda

Traditional circle formed by participants inside which Capoeira is played.

Place Brazil