French Conversation · Level 103
60 words
French word
pléiade
Pronunciation
IPA/plejad/
Meaning
- feminine nounhost
Example
Une pléiade d'artistes était présente.
A host of artists was present.
More examples
Il reste une pléiade de candidats intéressants.
A host of interesting candidates remain.
Core concept
A constellation-like cluster whose members are notable individually and impressive together.
Similar words
groupe: A group of several people or things gathered together.
ensemble: A collection of several people or elements forming a whole.
collectif: A group of people united by a shared purpose.
multitude: A very large number or gathering of people or things.
Definition in French
Mot désignant une multitude d'éléments perçus comme brillants ou dignes d'intérêt, utilisé surtout dans un registre soutenu.
Word origin
Pléiade entered French through Latin Pleiades from the Greek name for the star cluster, then developed a figurative sense for an exceptional group through La Pléiade.
Usage tips
- Pléiade belongs more to formal writing, journalism, and criticism than to relaxed everyday speech.