poussin
/pu.sɛ̃/
The French word poussin can mean a young chicken or a term of endearment.
The term poussin primarily refers to a young chicken, particularly one small enough to be considered a delicacy. In an informal context, it is also used as a term of endearment for a loved one, similar to saying 'sweetheart' or 'darling' in English.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of poussin is poussins, which is used when referring to multiple young chickens.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables and is pronounced /pu.sɛ̃/.
Did you know?
- The term poussin can be used jokingly to describe someone who is naive or inexperienced, similar to the English phrase 'wet behind the ears'.
- While poussin is a term of endearment, it is rarely used toward a romantic partner in modern French, being more common as a sweet name for a child.
- The word poussin is a close relative of the Italian word pulcino, as both descend from the Late Latin pullicēnus.
Examples in context
- Je voudrais de la viande de poussin, s'il vous plaîtI would like some poussin meat, please
- Le chef prépare un délicieux poussin.The chef is preparing a delicious young chicken.
- Je voudrais commander un poussin rôti.I would like to order a roasted young chicken.
- Ce poussin est très tendre.This young chicken is very tender.
Example conversation
Léa and Nathan are at a French restaurant.
- LéaEst-ce que le poussin est bon ici ?Is the young chicken good here?
- NathanOui, c'est une spécialité de la maison.Yes, it is the house specialty.
- LéaAlors, je vais prendre un poussin.Then, I will have a young chicken.
- NathanBon choix, Léa, il est excellent.Good choice, Léa, it is excellent.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry poussin, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries poussin, CC BY-SA 4.0.
