French word

menton

Pronunciation

IPA/mɑ̃tɔ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine nounchin

Example

Elle a un petit menton.

She has a small chin.

Illustration for menton (chin)

More examples

Elle se touche le menton quand elle réfléchit.

She touches her chin when she thinks.

Core concept

The small facial prominence under the mouth that can tilt upward, jut forward, or shape a facial expression.

Common phrases

  • se toucher le menton

    touch one's chin

  • menton pointu

    pointed chin

Similar words

bouche: The opening at the center of the face used to eat and speak.
mâchoire: The bone beneath and beside the mouth that moves during chewing.
barbe: Hair growing on a man's chin and cheeks.
joue: The soft area on the side of the face next to the mouth.

Definition in French

Désigne la partie du visage sous la bouche, souvent évoquée pour la posture ou l'expression du visage.

Word origin

The noun descends from Latin mentum through Old French menton, with the modern form established in French.

Usage tips

  • French uses menton in expressions such as relever le menton and baisser le menton for raising or lowering this part of the face.

Word lists with this word