noix de muscade
/nwa d(ə) mys.kad/feminine
The English phrase nutmeg is translated into French as noix de muscade. Wiktionary also lists noix muscade.
Meaning: spice (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| noix de muscade | /nwa d(ə) mys.kad/ | feminine |
| noix muscade | feminine |
The term refers to the spice. Related to this, the verb muscader means to flavour and the phrase faire un petit pont is a soccer term meaning to play the ball between the legs of an opponent.
What does it mean word for word?
The term noix de muscade literally translates to nut of musk.
Which one should you use?
noix de muscade is the standard term, while noix muscade is a common variation used in culinary contexts.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun is feminine, so it is preceded by la or une.
Did you know?
- The French word muscade shares a linguistic root with muguet, the word for lily of the valley, and muscat, a type of grape.
- The adjective muscade can also refer to a specific type of golden-colored grape or wine, such as 'Muscat', showing how scent-related terms are used in French viticulture.
Examples in context
- Je besoin d'un peu de noix de muscade.I need some nutmeg.This sentence is useful for expressing a need for the spice using noix de muscade.Tatoeba #6860987 by Micsmithel, translation #1099098 by mookeee
- Salez et poivrez le tout et ajoutez une pincée de noix de muscade.Salt and pepper completely and add a dash of nutmeg.This sentence is useful for describing how to add a dash of noix de muscade to a dish.Tatoeba #353356 by MUIRIEL, translation #2809527 by mervert1
- Tu as ajouté de la noix de muscade à la tarte? Ça a l'air délicieux!Did you add nutmeg to the pie? It looks delicious!
- La muscade est également un ingrédient courant dans les parfums et les savons.Nutmeg is also a common ingredient in perfumes and soaps.
- La noix de muscade peut être utilisée comme remède naturel contre les maux d'estomac.Nutmeg can be used as a natural remedy for stomachaches.
- La noix de muscade est dans le placard.The nutmeg is in the cupboard.
Example conversation
In the kitchen, Nathan is preparing a sauce.
- NathanEmma, as-tu de la noix de muscade ?Emma, do you have any nutmeg?
- EmmaOui, elle est sur l'étagère.Yes, it is on the shelf.
- NathanParfait, j'en ai besoin pour cette sauce.Perfect, I need some for this sauce.
- EmmaPrends-en juste un peu, Nathan.Just take a little bit, Nathan.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “nutmeg” translations and entries noix de muscade, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries de, muscade, noix, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
