horloge comtoise
The English phrase "grandfather clock" is translated into French as horloge comtoise.
This term refers specifically to a freestanding, weight-driven pendulum clock. It is the standard way to describe this specific type of tall clock in French.
Meaning: freestanding weight-driven pendulum clock (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term literally means "Comtois clock."
Is it said differently in some regions?
The name refers to a style of clock originating from the Franche-Comté region of France.
When do people say it?
In France, rather than using a generic term for a tall clock, speakers use horloge comtoise to identify this specific style of timepiece.
Did you know?
- In French culture, the horloge comtoise was historically a status symbol for rural farmers. Owning one signaled that a family had achieved a certain level of wealth and stability in the countryside.
- Unlike the English 'grandfather clock' which is a familial term, the horloge comtoise is categorized in French as a piece of 'art populaire' or folk art.
- The word horloge comes from the Latin horologium, which is derived from the Ancient Greek words for 'hour' and 'tell'.
Examples in context
- J'adore entendre carillonner une horloge comtoise.I love to hear a grandfather clock chime.This sentence shows the use of horloge comtoise when describing the sound of a clock chiming.Tatoeba #2170372 by sacredceltic, translation #558497 by darinmex
- Cette horloge comtoise est très ancienne.This grandfather clock is very old.
- Il a restauré une vieille horloge comtoise.He restored an old grandfather clock.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are visiting an antique shop.
- HugoRegarde cette magnifique horloge comtoise !Look at this magnificent grandfather clock!
- ManonElle est superbe, mais elle a l'air très lourde.It is superb, but it looks very heavy.
- HugoC'est normal pour une horloge comtoise en chêne.That's normal for an oak grandfather clock.
- ManonJe pense qu'elle serait parfaite dans ton salon.I think it would be perfect in your living room.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries horloge, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
