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/Sounds like "kah" (as in "car") + "LAHR" (as in "lava")/

Meaning

In Latin American street slang, to quietly investigate someone, to observe and assess before making any move. Also means to figure out someone's true intentions without them realizing.

Examples

I calé that dude before bringing him into the crew.

She calés everyone before trusting them, she doesn't play around.

Regional synonyms
Bandera de Colombia
Chivear

A bright orange marigold flower that is central to Mexico's Day of the Dead tradition. From the Nahuatl "zempoalxóchitl," the cempasúchil's intense color and penetrating scent are believed to guide the souls of the departed back to their family altars during their annual visit.