permanente
The French word for perm is permanente.
This term is a verb used to describe the process of treating hair to create waves or curls through the application of heat and chemicals.
Meaning: To treat hair, to give waves, by using heat and chemicals (verb)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Quebec, the word permanente is used to refer to a perm.
Related words
Did you know?
- In France, the term permanente can also describe a permanent exhibition in a museum, known as an exposition permanente.
- The common phrase se faire une permanente uses a reflexive structure, literally meaning 'to make oneself a perm'.
- The word boucles refers to both the curls created by a permanente and the loops found in other contexts, such as ribbons or knots.
Examples in context
- Elle veut faire une permanente.She wants to get a perm.
- Je ne veux pas faire de permanente.I don't want to get a perm.
Example conversation
Hugo and Emma are at a hair salon.
- HugoEmma, tu veux essayer une permanente ?Emma, do you want to try a perm?
- EmmaOui, je veux des boucles.Yes, I want curls.
- HugoLa permanente change vraiment le look.A perm really changes the look.
- EmmaC'est pour ça que j'adore.That is why I love it.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry permanente, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
