name

French

frehnch

name

The language spoken in France and by French-speaking communities around the world.

"She studied French for six years before moving to Paris."

adj

Relating to France, its people, or its culture.

"They served a traditional French meal with wine pairings."

verb

To cut food, especially vegetables or meat, into thin strips.

"French the green beans before adding them to the stir-fry."

How to Use French

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishRelating to France or the French language; also, as a verb, cutting food into thin strips.

Common mistake

Capitalize "French" when referring to the country, language, or nationality — lowercase uses (like "french fries" in casual writing) are informal exceptions, not the rule.

Common pairings

speak French French cuisine french the beans

Word Forms

more French comparative, Frencher comparative, frenched past tense, Frenches plural, frenches singular, most French superlative, Frenchest superlative

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Fill the Gap

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She studied _____ for six years before moving to Paris.

Etymology

From Old English Frencisc, meaning "Frankish," ultimately from the name of the Franks, the Germanic people who gave their name to France.

Rhymes for French

inch bench conch lunch punch wench finch lynch cinch pinch bunch winch

See all rhymes for French →