dentelle
/dɑ̃.tɛl/
The English word 'lacey' (referring to the fabric) is translated into French as dentelle.
dentelle refers to a fabric made of openwork threads, typically used for clothing or decorative purposes.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables: /dɑ̃.tɛl/.
Did you know?
- While dentelle refers to the fabric, the French word for a 'lace' used to tie shoes is completely different: lacet.
- The word dentelle is built from the word dent, which means 'tooth' in French. This links the delicate pattern of the lace to the serrated or pointed appearance of teeth.
- In certain culinary contexts, French chefs use the word dentelle to describe very thin, crispy, and delicate wafers or tuiles that resemble the structure of lace.
Examples in context
- Elle porte une robe en dentelle.She is wearing a lace dress.
- J'aime beaucoup la dentelle fine.I really like fine lace.
- Le bord du tissu est en dentelle.The edge of the fabric is lace.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are shopping for clothes.
- HugoRegarde cette chemise en dentelle, Manon.Look at this lace shirt, Manon.
- ManonElle est très élégante, Hugo.It is very elegant, Hugo.
- HugoEst-ce que tu préfères la dentelle noire ?Do you prefer the black lace?
- ManonOui, je préfère celle-là.Yes, I prefer that one.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry dentelle, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries dentelle, CC BY-SA 4.0.
