French Conversation · Level 14
89 words
French word
enfant
Pronunciation
IPA/ɑ̃fɑ̃/
Meaning
- noun (m./f.)child
Example
L'enfant joue dans le parc.
The child is playing in the park.
More examples
Un enfant en bas âge a besoin de surveillance.
A very young child needs supervision.
Core concept
A young person still growing toward adulthood and needing care, whether a boy or a girl.
Common phrases
un enfant en bas âge
a very young child
l'enfant perdu
lost child
Similar words
garçon: A boy or male child.
fille: A girl or female child.
bébé: A newborn or very young child.
gamin: An informal term for a lively, mischievous boy.
Definition in French
Personne jeune qui n'est pas encore adulte, généralement un garçon ou une fille depuis la naissance jusqu'à la puberté.
Word origin
French enfant comes from Latin infans, infantis, meaning "not speaking," and passed through Old French before developing its modern sense.
Usage tips
- Enfant is normally masculine in un enfant but can be feminine in une enfant when referring specifically to a girl.