Meaning
To the letter / Literally
Example
A sentença deveria ser aplicada ao pé da letra conforme o juiz determinou.
The sentence should be applied to the letter as the judge determined.
Origin
Ao pé da letra ("at the foot of the letter") means taking words in their strict, literal sense. Here pé ("foot") carries the old figurative meaning of "right next to" or "close beside," so to read something ao pé da letra is to stay right beside the written word, adding nothing of your own.
Source: Ciberdúvidas da Língua Portuguesa.
Practice idioms with the Idiom Trainer
Falando's Idiom Trainer teaches you to recognize idiom meanings and create sentences using them, so you can speak like a Brazilian.
More idioms
Acertar na moscaTo guess correctly / To hit the nail on the headAmigo da onçaA fake/false friendAndar na linhaTo toe the line / To behave properlyArmar um barracoTo cause a public sceneRodar a baianaTo cause a public scene / To go ballisticArrumar sarna pra se coçarTo ask for troubleArrastar as asasTo hit on someone / To flirtAbrir o jogoTo come clean / To open upArregaçar as mangasTo roll up one's sleeves / To get to workAgarrar com unhas e dentesTo hold on for dear life / To seize an opportunity