French word

ode

Pronunciation

IPA/ɔd/

Meaning

  • feminine nounode

Example

Elle a lu une ode en classe.

She read an ode in class.

Illustration for ode (ode)

More examples

Ce plat est une ode au fromage.

This dish is an ode to cheese.

Core concept

A serious, elevated poem whose voice sings the praises of a chosen subject.

Similar words

poème: A short, beautiful poem that conveys feelings or scenes through carefully chosen words.
compliment: A short expression of praise for someone's actions, character, or appearance.

Definition in French

Poème lyrique, souvent solennel, qui célèbre ou adresse des louanges à une personne, une idée ou un objet.

Word origin

The French noun ode was borrowed through Latin oda from Ancient Greek ōidē, meaning song, retaining its link with sung poetry.

Usage tips

  • In modern French, une ode à plus a noun names something being strongly praised, often in a literary or figurative context.

Word lists with this word