French Conversation · Level 67
60 words
French word
médaille
Pronunciation
IPA/medaj/
Meaning
- feminine nounmedal
Example
Il a gagné une médaille au concours.
He won a medal in the competition.
More examples
Il a accroché sa médaille au mur.
He hung his medal on the wall.
Core concept
A tangible metal token held, displayed, or awarded as a sign of distinction or remembrance.
Common phrases
une médaille d'argent
a silver medal
une médaille de bronze
a bronze medal
remettre une médaille
award a medal
Similar words
prix: A prize or sum of money awarded to a selected competitor or entrant.
trophée: An award shaped like a cup or statue, given to a competition winner.
récompense: Money or an item given for effort, assistance, or a helpful act.
distinction: An honor or title awarded for achievement or ability.
Definition in French
Objet métallique, généralement en forme de disque ou de plaquette, remis comme récompense ou conservé comme souvenir.
Word origin
The French noun was borrowed from Italian medaglia, which developed from Medieval Latin medalia for a small metal piece.
Usage tips
- For an official state honor, French often uses décoration or ordre rather than médaille.
Other meanings
- decorationnoun
- commemorative medalnoun
Related words
- médaillistemedalistnoun
- médaillémedal-winningadjective