French word

semelle

Pronunciation

IPA/səmɛl/

Meaning

  • feminine nounsole

Example

Je dois changer les semelles de mes chaussures ce week-end.

I have to change the soles of my shoes this weekend.

Illustration for semelle (sole)

More examples

La semelle en caoutchouc de ces chaussures est abîmée.

The rubber sole of these shoes is damaged.

Core concept

A shoe's protective base that contacts the ground, wears down over time, and can be renewed without replacing the whole shoe.

Common phrases

  • semelle extérieure

    outsole

  • semelle en caoutchouc

    rubber sole

  • changer la semelle

    replace the sole

Similar words

semelle extérieure: The bottom layer of a shoe that touches the ground.
semelle intérieure: An insert inside a shoe that supports the foot and improves comfort.
talon: The rear part of a shoe beneath the heel that provides height and stability.

Definition in French

Partie inférieure d'une chaussure qui touche le sol et assure l'adhérence, la protection du pied et parfois l'amortissement ; souvent remplaçable pour prolonger la durée de vie de la chaussure.

Word origin

Semelle was inherited through Old French from Latin semella, formed as a diminutive of sella, 'seat', before acquiring its footwear sense.

Usage tips

  • The repair verb ressemeler means to replace or renew a shoe's sole, so it is common in discussions of shoe repair.

Other meanings

  • insolenoun

Word lists with this word