herpès génital
/ɛʁ.pɛs ʒe.ni.tal/masculine
The English phrase "genital herpes" is translated into French as herpès génital.
herpès génital is a noun used to describe a genital infection.
Meaning: infection (noun)
Which one should you use?
While herpès génital is the standard term, you may encounter the term herpès vénérien, which is a formal term for the condition but is now considered outdated or imprecise by some.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Québec, the phrase feu sauvage génital is used to refer to genital herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus.
How do you pronounce it?
It consists of 4 syllables.
Did you know?
- The Québec expression feu sauvage literally translates to 'wild fire', reflecting a traditional way of describing the burning sensation and appearance of the blisters.
- While herpès vénérien is outdated, the adjective vénérien comes from the Roman goddess Venus, the goddess of love.
- The word herpès was borrowed into French from the Latin herpēs, which originally referred to a creeping or crawling movement.
Examples in context
- L'herpès génital est une infection courante.Genital herpes is a common infection.
- Elle a été testée pour l'herpès génital.She was tested for genital herpes.
Example conversation
A person is talking to a doctor about symptoms.
- LéaEst-ce que l'herpès génital est contagieux ?Is genital herpes contagious?
- NathanOui, il peut se transmettre facilement.Yes, it can be transmitted easily.
- LéaJe m'inquiète pour mon partenaire.I am worried about my partner.
- NathanIl est préférable de faire un test.It is better to get a test.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “genital herpes” translations and entries herpès génital, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries génital, herpès, CC BY-SA 4.0.
