Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
senzala
Noun
sen-‘za-la
Definition
A term used in Brazil to refer to the places where enslaved people were housed on plantations during the colonial period.
Examples
- The senzala was often situated far from the main house, highlighting the separation between the enslaved and their owners.
- During tours of historic plantations, guides often explain the living conditions in the senzala.
Meaning
Senzala specifically describes the quarters or living areas allocated to enslaved people, often marked by poor living conditions. It reflects a historical context of slavery and exploitation.
Synonyms
- Slave quarters
- Slave huts
- Enslaved people’s quarters