guimauve
/ɡi.mov/feminine
The English word marshmallow is translated into French as guimauve. Wiktionary also lists marshmallow and chamallow.
Meaning: confectionery (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| guimauve | /ɡi.mov/ | feminine |
| marshmallow | masculine | |
| chamallow | /ʃa.ma.lo/ | masculine |
The term refers to the confectionery known as a marshmallow.
Which one should you use?
guimauve is the standard French word used in all contexts, such as formal writing and cooking. chamallow is a colloquialism derived from a popular brand name, while marshmallow is the English loanword.
How does it change in a sentence?
guimauve is a feminine noun, so it uses the articles une or la. The loanword marshmallow is treated as a masculine noun, using un.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ɡi.mov/ and consists of two syllables.
Did you know?
- Historically, guimauve referred to a medicinal paste made from the root of the marsh mallow plant, which was used to soothe sore throats.
- The word guimauve is also used as a metaphor to describe a person who is overly sentimental, soft-hearted or weak.
- The Latin origin of guimauve involves a historical confusion between the 'hibiscus' plant and 'viscum', which is the plant known as mistletoe.
Examples in context
- Si je pouvais t'envoyer une guimauve, Trang, je le ferais.If I could send you a marshmallow, Trang, I would.This sentence is useful for expressing a desire to send someone a guimauve.Tatoeba #430493 by Scott, translation #1365 by Zifre
- Je te propose de déguster une délicieuse guimauve.I suggest you taste a delicious marshmallow.
- J'ai acheté des chamallows pour le barbecue de ce soir.I bought some marshmallows for tonight's barbecue.
- Cette guimauve est très sucrée.This marshmallow is very sweet.
- Je veux une guimauve rose.I want a pink marshmallow.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are having a snack at home.
- LéaNathan, tu veux une guimauve ?Nathan, do you want a marshmallow?
- NathanOui, merci Léa.Yes, thanks Léa.
- LéaLa guimauve est délicieuse.The marshmallow is delicious.
- NathanC'est vrai, elle est très bonne.It's true, it is very good.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “marshmallow” translations and entries guimauve, chamallow, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries chamallow, guimauve, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
