This is the 11371st most frequent Portuguese word.
mão
"Hand."
In this sentence, "mão" refers to the physical hand being used to perform the action of holding the ladder, showcasing its literal meaning.
Ela me ajudou com a mão firme ao segurar a escada.
She helped me with a firm hand by holding the ladder.
Here, "mão" symbolizes the act of extending one's hand as a gesture of friendship, representing its figurative meaning of goodwill or support.
Ele ofereceu sua mão em amizade.
He offered his hand in friendship.
In this example, "mão" is part of the phrase "mão-de-obra," which figuratively refers to labor or workforce, connecting to the idea of people using their hands for work.