gallicism
|gal-li-cism|
/ˈɡælɪsɪzəm/
French-derived expression or French characteristic
Etymology
'gallicism' originates from Modern French, specifically the word 'gallicisme', which itself comes from Latin 'Gallicus' meaning 'of Gaul' or 'French'.
'gallicism' entered English via French 'gallicisme' (19th century usage) from Latin 'Gallicus' (pertaining to Gaul), and developed into the English noun 'gallicism'.
Initially related to 'of Gaul' or 'French' (geographical/ethnic), but over time it came to mean 'a French word, expression, or stylistic trait used in another language'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a word, phrase, or construction in another language that is borrowed from French or modeled on French usage.
The word 'rendezvous' is a common gallicism in English.
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Noun 2
an expression or idiom taken directly from French, often used without translation.
Phrases like 'je ne sais quoi' are often cited as gallicisms in English prose.
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Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/01 06:06