This is the 1459th most frequent Portuguese word.
alimentar
To feed or nourish.
In this context, 'alimentar' is used metaphorically to mean sustaining or encouraging positive feelings.
É importante alimentar as esperanças mesmo em tempos difíceis.
It's important to nourish hope even during difficult times.
The usage of 'alimentar' here refers to the act of providing food to living beings.
Eu preciso alimentar os pássaros todas as manhãs.
I need to feed the birds every morning.
'Alimentar' is used figuratively here to mean 'nourish' or 'stimulate' in relation to intellectual sustenance.