French word

navire

Pronunciation

IPA/naviʁ/

Meaning

  • masculine nounship

Example

Le navire transporte des marchandises.

The ship transports goods.

Illustration for navire (ship)

More examples

Ce navire partira demain matin.

This ship will leave tomorrow morning.

Core concept

A large ocean vessel moves across open water while its hull protects passengers or freight.

Common phrases

  • navire marchand

    merchant ship

  • navire de croisière

    cruise ship

  • navire de guerre

    warship

Similar words

bateau: A small to medium-sized boat for river or coastal travel.
ferry: A vessel that regularly carries vehicles and passengers over short distances.

Definition in French

Grand bateau conçu pour naviguer en mer et transporter des personnes ou des marchandises.

Word origin

The French noun navire developed from Old French navire and ultimately from Latin navigium, which is related to navis, meaning ship.

Usage tips

  • Bateau is more common in everyday speech, while navire often suits maritime, journalistic, or official contexts.

Related words

Word lists with this word