French word

gilet

Pronunciation

IPA/ʒilɛ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounvest

Example

Je vais mettre mon gilet, il fait un peu frais.

I am going to put on my vest; it is a little chilly.

Illustration for gilet (vest)

More examples

Il a perdu son gilet dans le métro.

He lost his vest on the subway.

Core concept

A short sleeveless layer covers the torso over a shirt or sweater, with a front that stays open or closes with buttons.

Common phrases

  • mettre un gilet

    put on a vest

  • enfiler un gilet

    slip on a vest

  • boutonner son gilet

    button one's vest

Similar words

veste: A lightweight jacket with sleeves, often worn outdoors.
pull: A long-sleeved sweater pulled over the head to keep warm.
cardigan: A long-sleeved sweater that opens in front and fastens with buttons or a zipper.
manteau: A thick, long coat worn outdoors in cold weather.

Definition in French

Vêtement sans manches que l'on porte sur une chemise ou un pull pour couvrir le torse, souvent fermé par des boutons ou porté ouvert.

Word origin

French gilet came through Provençal gilec from Turkish yelek, a word for a sleeveless vest.

Usage tips

  • Gilet is masculine, so standard forms include un gilet, ce gilet, and mon gilet.

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