French word

selle

Pronunciation

IPA/sɛl/

Meaning

  • feminine nounsaddle

Example

La selle du vélo est trop dure.

The bicycle saddle is too hard.

Illustration for selle (saddle)

More examples

Il faut changer la selle si elle est usée.

You need to change the saddle if it is worn.

Core concept

A shaped seat that supports a rider on a horse or bicycle; in medical language, the body's expelled waste.

Common phrases

  • changer la selle

    change the saddle

  • selle rembourrée

    padded saddle

Similar words

siège: A place or object designed for someone to sit on.
chaise: A chair with a back, used by one person for dining or working.
fauteuil: A soft indoor chair with armrests for comfortable sitting.
tabouret: A simple low seat without a backrest.

Definition in French

Élément d'assise fixé sur le dos d'un cheval ou sur un vélo pour soutenir le cavalier ou le cycliste; en contexte médical, mot pour les matières fécales.

Word origin

French selle comes through Old French from Latin sella, meaning a seat, while the medical sense developed as a specialized use.

Usage tips

  • Selle is feminine, so standard phrases use une selle and la selle, and its final e is silent in pronunciation.

Other meanings

  • stoolnoun

Word lists with this word