Uai is an interjection used particularly in the state of Minas Gerais with the meaning of doubt, amazement or surprise. It is one of the symbols of the language and culture of Minas Gerais and a term widely used to refer to miners. The term names online sites with information about Minas Gerais, bars, restaurants and different events.
UAI is also an acronym for Integrated Care Unit, which are hospital units located in various regions of the city of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais.
Origin of the word uai
The word uai has a controversial origin. One of the versions, attributed to Sílvio Carneiro and Dorália Galesso, reports that UAI stands for União, Amor e Independência. UAI would be a password (along with the three classic Freemasonry beats) used by members of Inconfidência Mineira (almost exclusively composed of Freemasons) so that the door of the place of secret meetings was opened. It was a way to protect themselves from the Portuguese police. The word was popularized by miners and is part of current language.