Football legend Pele has been added to the Portuguese dictionary, but not as a noun – as an adjective to describe something extraordinary. The announcement of the inclusion of “Pele” in the dictionary has sparked a wave of reactions on social media.
What does the dictionary entry mean?
The new definition of “Pele” reads: “Exceptional, extraordinary, unparalleled, legendary. Only for those who surpass all levels of greatness.” This is not the first time a famous person’s name has been included in a dictionary as an adjective, but it is a rare occurrence.
Why is Pele so significant?
Pele is considered one of the greatest football players of all time. He won three World Cups with Brazil in 1958, 1962, and 1970 and scored over 1,000 career goals. He is also known for his humanitarian work and has been a UN ambassador for ecology and the environment. He passed away on December 29, 2022.
Pele‘s journey from poverty to greatness is one of the most inspiring stories in modern sports history. Born as Edson Arantes do Nascimento, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest and most iconic athletes of all time.
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Mixed reactions
The news of Pele’s addition to the dictionary has been widely celebrated on social media. Many people have praised the footballer’s impact on the sport and his status as a cultural icon. Some have also noted that the inclusion of “Pele” in the dictionary reflects the importance of the Brazilian football legend not only in Brazil but also worldwide.
However, there are some critics who argue that the inclusion of “Pele” in the dictionary as an adjective is unnecessary and trivializes his legacy. Pele will be remembered not only for his remarkable achievements on the football field but also for his contributions off it. His legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans around the world.