Pelé, the Brazilian football legend, has been added to the Portuguese dictionary as an adjective to describe someone or something out of the ordinary. This move comes after his passing in December.
What happened?
The Pelé Foundation and SporTV organized a "Pelé in the dictionary" campaign, which gained more than 125,000 signatures.
The definition of "Pelé" in the Michaelis dictionary now reads: "What or who is out of the ordinary, what or who by virtue of their quality, value or superiority cannot be equaled to anything or anyone, just like Pelé, nickname of Edson Arantes do Nascimento (1940-2022), considered to be the greatest athlete of all time; exceptional, incomparable, unique."
Why it matters for Pelé
This addition to the dictionary is a significant milestone for Pelé's legacy. Joe Fraga, executive director of the Pelé Foundation, stated that "his name in the dictionary is a very important piece of his legacy that will keep Pelé alive forever."
What comes next?
The announcement was marked at a sports industry summit in São Paulo, Brazil, where Pelé's family received a plaque displaying the definition. This recognition solidifies Pelé's status as a three-time World Cup winner and one of the greatest players of all time.
Pelé is considered by many to be football's first global superstar. His name is now synonymous with exceptional talent and achievement. The examples given in the dictionary, such as "He is the Pelé of basketball, she is the Pelé of tennis, she is the Pelé of Brazilian dramaturgy," demonstrate the breadth of his influence.
The campaign to add Pelé to the dictionary was a testament to his enduring impact on the world of football. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of athletes and fans alike. On April 27, 2023, this campaign came to fruition, cementing Pelé's place in the Portuguese dictionary.
The Michaelis dictionary's decision to include Pelé as an adjective is a nod to his remarkable career and achievements. As a player, Pelé won three World Cup titles and is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. His influence extends beyond the pitch, with his name becoming a byword for excellence and exceptional talent.
The addition of Pelé to the dictionary is a significant event in the world of football. It recognizes his status as a legend and a pioneer in the sport. Pelé's legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of athletes and fans.
The recognition of Pelé's exceptional talent and achievements is a reminder of his enduring impact on the world of football. His name is now an adjective in the Portuguese dictionary, synonymous with exceptional talent and achievement. This milestone is a fitting tribute to his remarkable career and legacy.