French word

chien

Pronunciation

IPA/ʃjɛ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine noundog

Example

Le chien est dans le parc.

The dog is in the park.

Illustration for chien (dog)

More examples

Tous les matins, je promène mon chien.

Every morning, I walk my dog.

Core concept

A household dog waiting near its human companion, ready for a walk, company, or a warning bark.

Common phrases

  • promener son chien

    walk one's dog

  • avoir un chien

    have a dog

  • chien de compagnie

    pet dog

Similar words

chiot: A very young dog.
animal de compagnie: An animal kept at home to live alongside people.

Definition in French

Mammifère domestique à quatre pattes, généralement compagnon de l'homme et qui aboie.

Word origin

The French noun chien developed from Old French chien, which derives from Latin canis through regular historical sound change.

Usage tips

  • The idiom avoir du chien means to have charm or allure, not to possess a dog.

Word lists with this word