Definition
A line of people or things waiting one behind another. Very common in everyday situations like shops, banks, and bus stops.
Example
A fila do banco estava enorme hoje de manhã.
Show translation
The line at the bank was huge this morning.
Etymology
From Latin *fīla*, plural of *fīlum* ("thread, string"), suggesting a chain of things strung one after another. The word passed through Old French *file* before entering Portuguese.
Cultural note
Brazilians are famously expressive about waiting in *filas* — a long line is called a *fila enorme* or *fila do inferno* ("queue from hell"). The verb *furar a fila* (to cut in line) is considered very rude and can provoke real confrontation. In Brazil, the word *fila* is used universally, whereas in Portugal *bicha* is more common — a classic false friend to watch out for, as *bicha* has very different slang meanings in Brazilian Portuguese.