The act of tenderly running one's fingers through a loved one's hair.

Origin: The word 'cafuné' is believed to have its origins in the Kimbundu language, spoken by the Mbundu people in Angola. The Kimbundu word 'kafunga' means 'to fondle or caress', which was brought to Brazil through the transatlantic slave trade, where it was adopted into Brazilian Portuguese.
Historical and Cultural Context: 'Cafuné' reflects a gesture of intimacy and affection, often seen in familial and romantic relationships. Its first attestation in Brazilian Portuguese dates back to the 19th century, where it was used to describe a common practice among families and loved ones.
Evolution: Over time, 'cafuné' has maintained its meaning, emphasizing tenderness and care. It has not undergone significant phonetic or morphological changes, but it does share cognates with other Portuguese words related to touch and caress.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'cafuné' is widely used in Brazilian Portuguese to describe a simple yet profound act of love. It often appears in literature, music, and everyday conversations as a symbol of affection.

In Brazil, 'cafuné' is considered one of the ultimate gestures of comfort and love, often exchanged between family members, friends, and romantic partners.