This is the 12676th most frequent Portuguese word.
travam
"Travam" means "they block" or "they lock" in English.
Here, 'travam' means 'engage in' or 'have', referring to the act of starting or maintaining an active discussion.
Eles travam uma discussão acalorada sobre política.
They engage in a heated discussion about politics.
In this context, 'travam' refers to 'lock up' or 'seize', indicating the mechanical action of becoming immobile.
As rodas do carro travam repentinamente ao frear.
The car's wheels lock suddenly when braking.
Here, 'travam' suggests 'hesitate' or 'pause', describing the students' reaction to a situation where their progress is impeded temporarily.