This is the 6096th most frequent Portuguese word.
cata
"Search" or "collect."
In this context, 'cata' is used as a verb meaning 'picks up' or 'gathers', indicating the action of collecting items manually.
Ela cata as folhas caídas no jardim.
She picks up the fallen leaves in the garden.
Here, 'cata' is interpreted as a noun often derived from the verb, meaning 'harvesting' or 'gathering', implying a collective action.
O vento parou e a cata das frutas começou.
The wind stopped and the harvesting of fruits began.
In this example, 'cata' is a verb again, emphasizing the action of carefully collecting pieces.