Encoxada !!top!!

In many places, perpetrators (known as encoxadores ) work in groups. One blocks the exit, another creates a distraction, and the main aggressor takes advantage of the victim’s immobility. Because the touch is brief and hidden by the crowd, victims are left wondering: Did that really just happen? Am I overreacting?

In the daily life of Brazil's major metropolises, the "encoxada" is often cited in discussions regarding safety and mobility for women . In overcrowded buses and trains, predators often use the lack of physical space as a "shield" or excuse to press against others, leading to a pervasive sense of insecurity and psychological distress for victims. Key aspects of this social issue include: encoxada

The word comes from the Catalan encorjar (to press) or the Spanish encoger (to shrink). In everyday slang, encoxada refers to the act of a person—almost always a man—pressing his genitals against a woman’s body without consent in a crowded public space, such as a bus, subway, or train. In many places, perpetrators (known as encoxadores )

It can be used colloquially to describe any situation where someone is "squeezed" or "pushed" in a crowd, though this usage is becoming less common as awareness of sexual harassment grows. Awareness and Prevention Am I overreacting

Have you experienced or witnessed encoxada? Sharing stories (anonymously) helps break the taboo. Leave a comment below or reach out to local transit safety groups in your city.

Encoxada is often served with a side of rice, vegetables, or a salad, and it's a popular dish in many Azorean restaurants. It's also a great example of the creative use of codfish, which is a staple ingredient in Azorean cuisine.