maison en pain d'épices
The English phrase "gingerbread house" is translated into French as maison en pain d'épices.
This term refers to a novelty confectionery item shaped like a house, typically made from gingerbread and decorated with sweets.
Meaning: novelty confectionery (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "house in gingerbread", where pain d'épices is the French term for gingerbread.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Maison en pain d'épices is a variation used in specific regions.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, you change maison to maisons. The pain d'épices part remains singular as it refers to the substance.
Did you know?
- The word pain comes from the Latin pānem, which is the same root used for the English word 'companion', meaning 'one with whom you share bread'.
- The French term pain d'épices is deeply linked to the Alsace region, reflecting a historical culinary blend with German Lebkuchen.
- In French, the word maison does not only describe a building but is also the official term for a luxury 'firm', such as a high-fashion house.
Examples in context
- Les enfants décorent une maison en pain d'épices.The children are decorating a gingerbread house.
- Il a construit une grande maison en pain d'épices.He built a large gingerbread house.
- La petite fille veut une maison en pain d'épices.The little girl wants a gingerbread house.
Example conversation
Chloé and Lucas are looking at a festive bakery window.
- ChloéRegarde cette magnifique maison en pain d'épices !Look at this magnificent gingerbread house!
- LucasElle est vraiment très jolie, Chloé.It is really very pretty, Chloé.
- ChloéEst-ce qu'on peut l'acheter pour Noël ?Can we buy it for Christmas?
- LucasOui, je pense qu'on peut la prendre.Yes, I think we can take it.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries en, maison, pain, CC BY-SA 4.0.
