casse-noisette
The English word "nutcracker" is casse-noisette in French.
The term refers to an implement used for cracking nuts.
Meaning: implement for cracking nuts (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound of the verb casser (to break) and noisette (hazelnut).
Which one should you use?
While casse-noisette specifically refers to a hazelnut cracker, casse-noix is a more general term for a nutcracker used for any kind of nut.
Did you know?
- The word casse appears in the common French slang casse-pieds to describe an annoying person, which literally translates to 'foot-breaker'.
- When describing eye color, French speakers use noisette instead of 'brown' to specify a light or golden-brown hue.
- In French culinary terms, beurre noisette describes butter that has been browned until it smells and looks like a 'hazelnut'.
Examples in context
- Pouvez-vous me passer le casse-noisette, s'il vous plaît?Could you pass me the nutcracker, please?
- J'ai besoin d'un casse-noisette pour ces noix.I need a nutcracker for these walnuts.
- Où est le casse-noisette dans la cuisine ?Where is the nutcracker in the kitchen?
- Ce vieux casse-noisette est en métal.This old nutcracker is made of metal.
Example conversation
Manon and Nathan are preparing snacks in the kitchen.
- ManonNathan, tu peux trouver un casse-noisette ?Nathan, can you find a nutcracker?
- NathanJe crois qu'il est dans le tiroir.I think it is in the drawer.
- ManonAh, le voilà, merci beaucoup.Ah, there it is, thank you very much.
- NathanDe rien, Manon.You're welcome, Manon.
