mignon
/mi.ɲɔ̃/
The French word mignon means cute.
While it often refers to physical cuteness or a sweet temperament, it can also be used to describe a small, delicate portion of food.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the word changes based on the gender and number of the subject: use mignonne for the feminine singular, mignons for the masculine plural and mignonnes for the feminine plural.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /mi.ɲɔ̃/ and consists of 2 syllables.
Did you know?
- The word shares a surprising linguistic DNA with the English word 'mind', as both originate from the same Proto-Indo-European root 'men-' which relates to the act of thinking.
- In the 16th century, mignons were the pampered young favorites of King Henry III of France, known for their elaborate fashion and influence at court.
- While you might use mignon to describe a child, using it to describe an adult in France can come across as patronizing, as if you are treating them like a small child.
Examples in context
- Cette poupée est vraiment mignonneThis doll is truly cute
- Cette robe est trop mimi!This dress is so cute!
- Quelle petite fille chou!What a cute little girl!
- Ce chaton est vraiment craquant!This kitten is truly adorable!
- Cette photo est trop choupinou!This photo is so cute!
- Ce petit chat est très mignon.This little cat is very cute.
- Il a un visage mignon.He has a cute face.
- C'est un dessin mignon.It is a cute drawing.
Example conversation
Gabriel and Manon are looking at a puppy in a shop window.
- GabrielRegarde ce chiot, il est trop mignon !Look at this puppy, he is so cute!
- ManonOui, il est vraiment mignon.Yes, he is truly cute.
- GabrielEst-ce que tu veux l'adopter ?Do you want to adopt him?
- ManonPeut-être, il est trop adorable.Maybe, he is too adorable.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mignon, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mignon, CC BY-SA 4.0.
