French word

bouclier

Pronunciation

IPA/buklije/

Meaning

  • masculine nounshield

Example

Le chevalier porte un bouclier.

The knight carries a shield.

Illustration for bouclier (shield)

More examples

La couche d'ozone fonctionne comme un bouclier naturel pour la Terre.

The ozone layer functions as a natural shield for Earth.

Core concept

A barrier placed between a person and a threat, held on the arm literally and extended to protective measures figuratively.

Common phrases

  • bouclier naturel

    natural shield

  • bouclier juridique

    legal protection

Similar words

protection: Something that provides safety from danger or injury.
barrière: A structure that physically prevents passage or access.
écran: A board or hanging screen that blocks light, vision, or incoming objects.
abri: A sheltered place offering protection from wind, rain, or external threats.

Definition in French

Pièce de protection, généralement ronde ou ovale et tenue à la main ou attachée au bras, destinée à parer des attaques ; au sens figuré, ensemble de mesures protectrices contre un risque.

Word origin

French bouclier developed through Old French boclier from Latin buccula, meaning 'small cheek', the name of a piece of armor that came to designate a shield.

Usage tips

  • Bouclier is masculine, as in un bouclier, and the common figurative pattern is bouclier contre followed by a risk or threat.

Other meanings

  • protectionnoun
  • defensenoun

Word lists with this word