French Conversation · Level 144
30 words
French word
fourmi
Pronunciation
IPA/fuʁmi/
Meaning
- feminine nounant
Example
Il y a une fourmi sur la table.
There is an ant on the table.
More examples
Après l'exercice, j'ai eu des fourmis dans les jambes.
After exercising, I had pins and needles in my legs.
Core concept
A small insect whose strength and coordinated work support a busy colony.
Common phrases
avoir des fourmis dans les jambes
have pins and needles in one's legs
une fourmi dans la cuisine
an ant in the kitchen
Similar words
insecte: A small creature with six legs, belonging to the group that includes ants and beetles.
Definition in French
Petit insecte capable de porter des objets proportionnellement lourds et organisant son travail en colonie.
Word origin
The French noun fourmi is an inherited form of Latin formica, reshaped during its passage through Old French.
Usage tips
- In avoir des fourmis dans les jambes, fourmis refers to a tingling or pins-and-needles sensation rather than actual insects.
Related words
- fourmillerswarmverb
- fourmilièreanthillnoun