Pele was one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of sports. The late legend’s remarkable career spanned more than three decades and saw him propel the sport of soccer to new heights throughout the world. In addition to the three World Cups he led Brazil, Pele revolutionized soccer in the way he played and the success he brought to his nation on the world stage. The late soccer great, sadly passed away last year at the age of 82. Following the demise, many soccer greats like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo came forward to pay their respects to the Brazilian legend.

Moreover, the legacy he left behind will now enter the dictionary as the adjective “best”.

The word Pele added to the dictionary

In a demonstration of Pele’s lasting legacy, the Michaelis dictionary in Brazil recently added the word ‘Pelé’ as an informal term to describe something that is of the “best” or “extraordinary”. This is a fitting tribute to the memory of the legend who achieved everything possible during his extraordinary career. With over 125,000 signatures gathered as part of a campaign to honor Pele, media personnel shared the news on Wednesday.

The dictionary’s entry reads: “The one that is extraordinary, or who because of his quality, value or superiority cannot be matched to anything or anyone, just like Pelé; nickname of Edson Arantes do Nascimento (1940-2022), considered the best athlete of all time; exceptional, incomparable, unique. Examples: He is the Pelé of basketball, she is the Pelé of tennis, she is the Pelé of Brazilian theater, he is the Pelé of medicine”.

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This is a fitting tribute to a magnificent athlete and undoubtedly adds the perfect meaning to “Pele” – best. It is one that cements the legacy of this great man that will now live on forever. However, this is not the first time a soccer player’s name entered the dictionary. Lionel Messi, has also been bestowed the honor as the best by many in the soccer community. Spain’s dictionary made the honor official in 2013.

Lionel Messi also received the same honor

Just a decade ago, in 2013, Lionel Messi’s incredible performance for FC Barcelona earned him a place in Spain’s dictionary. An adjective, “inmessionante”, was created in reference to the PSG forward and his play style.

According to Spanish dictionaries, it means “The perfect way to play football, an unlimited ability to self-improve,” and also, “Describes the best player of all time”. It is a fitting description of one of the greatest players of all time.

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