orque
/ɔʁk/feminine
The English word "orca" is translated into French as orque or épaulard.
Meaning: ''Orcinus orca'' (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| orque | /ɔʁk/ | feminine |
| épaulard | /e.po.laʁ/ | masculine |
Both terms refer to the species *Orcinus orca*. épaulard is a common synonym often used in a more descriptive or traditional sense, corresponding to the English term "killer whale".
Which one should you use?
épaulard is a masculine noun. orque is a feminine noun used to refer to the orca.
How does it change in a sentence?
épaulard is masculine, whereas orque is feminine.
How do you pronounce it?
/ɔʁk/
Did you know?
- The word épaulard is derived from the French word for 'shoulder' épaule, referring to the distinctive white patch on the animal's side.
- The term orque is a linguistic 'doublet' of the word 'ogre', as both words trace back to the same roots describing a monstrous or frightening creature.
- The word épaulard is often preferred by older generations or in traditional maritime contexts in France, whereas orque feels more scientific or contemporary.
Examples in context
- L'orque est l'un des plus grands prédateurs de l'océan.The orca is one of the largest predators in the ocean.This sentence is useful for identifying the orque as a large ocean predator.Tatoeba #8925764 by lbdx, translation #6331097 by OsoHombre
- Les orques « s'orquanisent ».The orcas are orca-nizing.This sentence shows a playful or neologistic use of the word orque.Tatoeba #11868711 by Adelpa, translation #11861149 by shekitten
- Les orques sont des animaux fascinantsOrcas are fascinating animals
- J'adore les orques, elles sont si majestueuses !I love orcas, they are so majestic!
- L'orque nage près de la surface.The orca swims near the surface.
Example conversation
Emma and Lucas are watching a nature documentary on TV.
- EmmaRegarde cette orque, elle est magnifique !Look at that orca, she is magnificent!
- LucasOui, elle est vraiment impressionnante.Yes, she is truly impressive.
- EmmaEst-ce qu'elle chasse en groupe ?Does she hunt in a group?
- LucasOui, les orques chassent souvent ensemble.Yes, orcas often hunt together.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “orca” translations and entries orque, épaulard, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries orque, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
