Langimage
English

patois

|pat/ois|

C1

/ˈpætwɑː/

informal dialect

Etymology
Etymology Information

'patois' originates from French, specifically the word 'patois', where 'patois' meant 'rough speech'.

Historical Evolution

'patois' changed from the Old French word 'patois' and eventually became the modern English word 'patois'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'rough or unrefined speech', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'regional dialect or informal speech'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a regional dialect, especially one without a written tradition.

The villagers spoke a patois that was difficult for outsiders to understand.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Noun 2

a jargon or informal speech used by a particular group.

The technical patois of computer programmers can be confusing to newcomers.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/02/17 09:51