French word

oignon

Pronunciation

IPA/ɔɲɔ̃/

Meaning

  • masculine nounonion

Example

J'ai acheté un oignon au marché.

I bought an onion at the market.

Illustration for oignon (onion)

More examples

Quand je coupe un oignon, je pleure.

When I cut an onion, I cry.

Core concept

A layered kitchen bulb that can add a sharp bite raw or a sweeter flavor after cooking.

Common phrases

  • acheter un oignon

    buy an onion

  • éplucher un oignon

    peel an onion

  • couper un oignon

    cut an onion

Similar words

ail: A small, strongly scented bulb made of cloves, used in small amounts to season food.
échalote: A slender bulb with a mild, delicate flavor used chopped in sauces and salads.
poireau: A long-leaved vegetable with a thick white base that adds a sweet flavor to soups and stews.

Definition in French

Bulbe comestible de la plante Allium cepa, formé de couches charnues et au goût parfois piquant, utilisé comme légume ou condiment en cuisine.

Word origin

The French noun developed from Latin unio through medieval Latin and Old French, where the word came to denote a rounded, single bulb.

Usage tips

  • Oignon is masculine, so standard forms include un oignon, cet oignon, and l'oignon rather than feminine article forms.

Word lists with this word