ourson
/uʁ.sɔ̃/
The English phrase "little bear" is translated into French as ourson.
The term ourson is used to refer to a young bear.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a diminutive formed by combining ours (bear) and the suffix -on (small/little).
How do you pronounce it?
/uʁ.sɔ̃/
Did you know?
- In French, the word ours is used in the idiom faire l'ours, which describes someone who acts grumpy or unsociable.
- While ourson means a baby bear, the French word for a teddy bear is ours en peluche, which literally translates to 'bear in plush'.
- The word ourson is sometimes used as an affectionate pet name for a romantic partner or a child, similar to 'honey' or 'sweetie' in English.
Examples in context
- Mon petit ours, tu es si mignon !My little bear, you are so cute!
- Cet adorable petit ourson est un véritable trésor de la natureThis adorable little bear is a true treasure of nature
- L'ourson dort dans la forêt.The little bear is sleeping in the forest.
- Regarde cet adorable ourson.Look at that adorable little bear.
- L'ourson joue avec sa mère.The little bear is playing with its mother.
Example conversation
Hugo and Chloé are looking at animals at the zoo.
- HugoRegarde, il y a un petit ourson !Look, there is a little bear!
- ChloéOh, il est vraiment mignon, Hugo.Oh, he is really cute, Hugo.
- HugoL'ourson joue avec une branche.The little bear is playing with a branch.
- ChloéC'est adorable à regarder.It is adorable to watch.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ourson, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
