famille d'accueil
/fa.mij d‿a.kœj/feminine
The English phrase 'host family' is translated into French as famille d'accueil.
This term refers to a family that provides board and lodging to students or au pairs.
Meaning: a family which provides board and lodging to au pairs and students (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of famille (family) and d'accueil (of welcome/reception), which literally means 'family of welcome'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is feminine, so you use the article une to say 'a host family' (une famille d'accueil). To form the plural 'host families', only the word famille takes an 's', while accueil remains singular: familles d'accueil.
How do you pronounce it?
/fa.mij d‿a.kœj/
Did you know?
- While famille d'accueil describes a host family for students, the term is also the legal designation for foster families who take in children in the French social welfare system.
- The word accueil is so versatile that it refers to both a physical hotel reception desk and the emotional act of a warm greeting.
- The term can be applied to a family hosting refugees, extending the meaning from simple student lodging to a broader humanitarian role.
Examples in context
- Ma famille d'accueil me conseille souvent.My host family often advises me.This sentence shows how to use the form famille d'accueil when talking about the advice given to you.Tatoeba #2707477 by Elephantastique, translation #33456 by Dejo
- Je cherche une famille d'accueil à Lyon.I am looking for a host family in Lyon.
- Elle adore sa nouvelle famille d'accueil.She loves her new host family.
Example conversation
Lucas and Emma are talking about their study abroad programs.
- LucasTu as déjà choisi ta famille d'accueil ?Have you already chosen your host family?
- EmmaOui, j'ai hâte de les rencontrer !Yes, I can't wait to meet them!
- LucasC'est super pour ton séjour en France.That's great for your stay in France.
- EmmaMerci, Lucas, c'est très gentil.Thanks, Lucas, that's very kind.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “host family” translations and entries famille d'accueil, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
