Carioca is a demonym used to refer to the residents of Rio de Janeiro. The term originated as a mild insult to refer to the descendants of immigrants, but has evolved today to refer to any Rio native, and to membership in a distinct, coveted, moneyed lifestyle. “To be Carioca, you have to enjoy the beach and be casual in life,” one Brazilian told me. Another Rio resident defined Carioca this way: “You are social and friendly with everybody you meet.” Among the other definitions of a Carioca: Free-spirited. Not worrying too much about life. Letting things happen.