bater

Senses

1. 1.

   to hit, to strike

   to deliver a blow or impact with force

2. 2.

   to beat, to whip

   to mix or agitate vigorously (eggs, cream, etc.)

3. 3.

   to knock, to tap

   to rap lightly on a surface or door

4. 4.

   to flutter, to flap

   to move wings or appendages rapidly back and forth

Examples

• "Ele bateu na porta com força."

  He knocked on the door forcefully.

• "Vou bater a clara de ovo até ficar em ponto de neve."

  I'll beat the egg white until stiff peaks form.

• "O pássaro batia as asas freneticamente."

  The bird flapped its wings frantically.

Usage

Extremely common verb with wide application. In informal speech, "bater" is used for physical contact (hitting, striking), cooking (beating/whisking), and animal movement. Context determines sense; "bater um papo" (to have a chat) is a fixed idiom. Register is neutral across all senses.