Hermès
/ɛʁ.mɛs/masculine
The English name Hermes is translated into French as Hermès.
In French, the name Hermès refers both to the Greek god and the luxury fashion house.
Meaning: Greek god Hermes (name)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables and is pronounced /ɛʁ.mɛs/.
Did you know?
- While final consonants are often silent in French, the 's' in Hermès is clearly pronounced to preserve its Greek origin.
- The fashion house Hermès began as a harness workshop in 1837, linking the Greek god of travel to equestrian gear.
- In French literary traditions, Hermès is often used as a metaphor for the 'interpreter' or 'translator' because of the god's role as a messenger.
Examples in context
- Hermès est le messager des dieux.Hermes is the messenger of the gods.
- La statue représente Hermès.The statue represents Hermes.
Example conversation
Nathan and Manon are looking at a painting in a museum.
- NathanQui est le personnage avec des ailes ?Who is the character with wings?
- ManonC'est Hermès, le dieu grec.It is Hermes, the Greek god.
- NathanIl a l'air très rapide sur le tableau.He looks very fast in the painting.
- ManonOui, c'est tout à fait Hermès.Yes, that is exactly Hermes.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hermes” translations and entries Hermès, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
