Definition
To exchange, swap, or change something for something else.
Example
Preciso trocar de roupa antes de sair.
Show translation
I need to change my clothes before going out.
Etymology
From Old Portuguese, derived from a pre-Roman word, likely of Celtic or Germanic origin, related to the idea of barter. Cognate with Spanish "trocar" and Old French "troquer," all pointing to an ancient trading culture in the Iberian Peninsula.
Cultural note
In Brazil, "trocar uma ideia" (literally "to exchange an idea") is a very common informal expression meaning to have a casual chat or talk something over — closer to "let's catch up" than a formal discussion. You'll hear it constantly in everyday speech. Don't confuse it with "trocar" in the sense of making change (money), which also appears frequently: "Você tem troco?" ("Do you have change?").