parrain
standard, Louisiana
A godfather is a parrain in Cajun French, and a godmother is a marraine. The words are the same as in standard French.
Meaning: male godparent (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | Note |
|---|---|
| parrain | standard, Louisiana |
| marraine | godmother |
In Catholic Cajun families the parrain and the marraine are chosen at baptism and stay close to the child, often giving gifts on holidays.
How do you pronounce it?
Parrain sounds like "pah-RAN", with a nasal ending.
Did you know?
- Many Cajun families are Catholic, and baptism remains a major family occasion in Acadiana.
Examples in context
- Mon parrain vient à mon baptême.My godfather is coming to my baptism.
- Ma marraine m'a donné un cadeau.My godmother gave me a gift.
- Il est le parrain de ma fille.He is my daughter's godfather.
Example conversation
Thomas asks his friend Gaston to be godfather to his new baby at a church in Church Point.
- ThomasGaston, veux-tu être le parrain du bébé?Gaston, do you want to be the baby's godfather?
- GastonAvec plaisir, mon ami.With pleasure, my friend.
- ThomasMerci. Le baptême est dimanche.Thank you. The baptism is on Sunday.
