écharpe
/e.ʃaʁp/
The French phrase for arm sling is écharpe.
An écharpe refers to a bandage or piece of fabric used to support an injured arm. In everyday French, this word is also the standard term for a scarf worn for warmth.
Which one should you use?
Because écharpe can mean both an arm sling and a warm scarf, you can use the phrase écharpe médicale to clarify that you are referring specifically to a medical device rather than a fashion accessory.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables: /e.ʃaʁp/.
Did you know?
- In French political and civic life, an écharpe is a ceremonial sash worn by mayors to signal their official authority.
- The word écharpe evolved from the Old French word for a 'small bag' or 'satchel'.
- While a sling supports the arm, the word écharpe is most commonly associated with things that wrap around the neck.
Examples in context
- Il porte une écharpe pour son bras cassé.He is wearing an arm sling for his broken arm.
- L'infirmière m'a installé une écharpe.The nurse put an arm sling on me.
- Tu as besoin d'une écharpe pour ton épaule ?Do you need an arm sling for your shoulder?
Example conversation
At a doctor's office after an injury.
- LéaTon bras est très douloureux, Lucas ?Is your arm very painful, Lucas?
- LucasOui, je ne peux pas bouger mon bras.Yes, I cannot move my arm.
- LéaJe vais te chercher une écharpe.I am going to get you an arm sling.
- LucasMerci beaucoup, Léa, c'est très gentil.Thank you very much, Léa, that is very kind.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry écharpe, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries écharpe, CC BY-SA 4.0.
