French word

régaler

Pronunciation

IPA/ʁegale/

Meaning

  • verbtreat

Example

Il m'a régalé hier.

He treated me yesterday.

Illustration for régaler (treat)

More examples

Nous allons régaler nos amis ce soir.

We are going to treat our friends to a meal tonight.

Core concept

A generous treat that leaves someone delighted, whether it is food, a story, or a thoughtful act.

Common phrases

  • régaler quelqu'un

    treat ___ to a meal

  • régaler les invités

    treat the guests to a meal

Similar words

offrir: To give someone an object, meal, or drink.
inviter: To invite someone to a meal or event and spend time together.
servir: To serve food or drinks at the table.
faire plaisir: To act in a way that makes someone happy.

Definition in French

Faire plaisir à quelqu'un par une action agréable (un repas, une histoire, une attention) ; en forme pronominale, indiquer qu'on prend beaucoup de plaisir.

Word origin

Régaler comes from Middle French regaler, linked to Latin regalis, meaning royal, and originally suggests treating someone in a luxurious way.

Usage tips

  • The transitive pattern is régaler quelqu'un de quelque chose, while se régaler de quelque chose describes taking great pleasure in it.

Other meanings

  • entertainverb
  • amuseverb
  • delightverb

Opposites

Related words

  • régala feastnoun
  • régaladea lavish feastnoun

Word lists with this word