French word

merveilleux

Pronunciation

IPA/mɛʁvɛjø/

Meaning

  • adjectivewonderful

Example

C'est merveilleux.

This is wonderful.

Illustration for merveilleux (wonderful)

More examples

Nous avons passé un moment merveilleux hier soir.

We spent a wonderful moment yesterday evening.

Core concept

An experience or result that rises beyond the ordinary and draws both astonishment and praise.

Common phrases

  • un moment merveilleux

    a wonderful moment

  • un film merveilleux

    a wonderful film

Similar words

génial: Brilliant in its idea or execution, producing strong approval and enthusiasm.
super: A relaxed, informal expression of positive feeling about something good.
formidable: Highly impressive through its force or impact, causing surprise and admiration.
excellent: Exceptionally good in quality, workmanship, or overall performance.

Definition in French

Se dit de ce qui est extraordinaire au point de provoquer étonnement et admiration.

Word origin

Merveilleux is formed from merveille with the adjective suffix -eux, while merveille derives through Old French from Latin mirabilia, wonderful things.

Usage tips

  • In everyday French, merveilleux can describe a strong positive reaction to food, films, places, or events, not only something supernatural or fairy-tale-like.

Other meanings

  • amazingadjective

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word