French word

taverne

Pronunciation

IPA/tavɛʁn/

Meaning

  • feminine nountavern

Example

La taverne était pleine hier soir.

The tavern was full last night.

Illustration for taverne (tavern)

More examples

Nous avons pris un verre à la taverne après le travail.

We had a drink at the tavern after work.

Core concept

A traditional drinking house filled with conversation, shared drinks, and modest meals.

Common phrases

  • prendre un verre à la taverne

    have a drink at the tavern

  • entrer dans la taverne

    enter the tavern

  • aller à la taverne

    go to the tavern

Similar words

bar: A drinks-focused place where friends often stop for a drink.
bistrot: A small, friendly place serving affordable food and drinks.
brasserie: A popular restaurant serving a broad range of food and drinks throughout the day.

Definition in French

Établissement où l'on sert principalement des boissons alcoolisées et parfois des plats simples, fréquenté pour boire et socialiser dans une ambiance souvent conviviale ou traditionnelle.

Word origin

The French noun taverne is an inherited borrowing from Old French taverne, ultimately from Latin taberna, a word for a shop or drinking establishment.

Usage tips

  • Compared with bar, taverne often suggests a more traditional, rustic, or nostalgic setting rather than a neutral modern venue.

Other meanings

  • barnoun

Related words

  • taverniertavern keepernoun
  • tavernièrefemale tavern keepernoun

Word lists with this word