The word "Bronx" primarily refers to a borough of New York City, known as the northernmost of the five boroughs. It has a land area of about 42 square miles and contains notable places like Yankee Stadium and the Bronx Zoo. Historically, it was named after Jonas Bronck, an early European settler, and was once known as Bronck's Land and Bronck's River. The Bronx has a reputation for being a diverse area with some poor neighborhoods and crime, though this is not representative of the entire borough.
In Brazilian Portuguese slang, especially as popularized by UFC fighter Charles Oliveira, "Bronx" (or "Do Bronxs") refers to favelas or poor, tough neighborhoods on the outskirts of cities. Oliveira's nickname "Do Bronxs" means "from the Bronx," which is his way of saying he is from a favela — reflecting his roots and struggles growing up in a disadvantaged neighborhood in Brazil. This usage is metaphorical and relates to the toughness and hardship associated with those areas, rather than the New York Bronx itself.
Additionally, "Bronx" can also refer to a cocktail made with gin, vermouth, and orange juice, but this is less commonly the intended meaning outside specific contexts.
To summarize:
- The Bronx: A borough of New York City.
- "Bronx" in Brazilian slang: Refers to poor, rough neighborhoods or favelas.
- "Do Bronxs": A nickname meaning "from the Bronx," symbolizing roots in tough communities, notably used by Charles Oliveira.
This explanation covers both the geographical and cultural slang meanings of "Bronx" comprehensively.