French word

fil

Pronunciation

IPA/fil/

Meaning

  • masculine nounthread

Example

Le fil est coupé.

The thread is cut.

Illustration for fil (thread)

More examples

Il faut un fil à coudre pour raccommoder le bouton.

A sewing thread is needed to mend the button.

Core concept

One slender strand runs continuously from a spool through cloth, embroidery, or a loom.

Common phrases

  • fil à coudre

    sewing thread

  • fil dentaire

    dental floss

  • fil de pêche

    fishing line

Similar words

ficelle: A thin, flexible cord used for tying things or in handicrafts.
corde: A thick, strong rope used to pull or support heavy objects.

Definition in French

Brin continu de fibres, souvent enroulé sur une bobine, utilisé pour la couture, la broderie ou le tissage.

Word origin

The noun comes from Latin filum by inherited development through Old French, with its textile sense remaining stable over time.

Usage tips

  • In perdre le fil, fil refers to the thread of an argument or conversation rather than a physical strand.

Other meanings

  • wirenoun

Related words

  • filerspinverb
  • filamentfilamentnoun
  • filaturespinning millnoun

Word lists with this word