macareux
/ma.ka.ʁø/masculine
The English word puffin is translated into French as macareux.
The term macareux typically refers to the puffin species found in the North Atlantic.
Meaning: Fratercula arctica (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables and is pronounced /ma.ka.ʁø/.
Did you know?
- In French, the macareux moine is named after a monk because its white chest resembles a monastic habit.
- In French literature and nature guides, the macareux is often described as the 'clown of the seas' due to its awkward gait on land.
- The word macareux is closely linked to macreuse, a term used for a female duck or a clumsy person.
Examples in context
- Le macareux moine est un oiseau marin très apprécié pour son apparence unique.The Atlantic puffin is a seabird very much appreciated for its unique appearance.
- Le macareux est un oiseau très coloré.The puffin is a very colorful bird.
- J'ai vu un macareux sur la falaise.I saw a puffin on the cliff.
- Ce macareux cherche des poissons.This puffin is looking for fish.
Example conversation
Emma and Hugo are looking at a nature book in a library.
- EmmaRegarde ce petit macareux, il est mignon !Look at this little puffin, it is cute!
- HugoOui, il est vraiment très beau, Emma.Yes, he is really very beautiful, Emma.
- EmmaEst-ce que tu connais son habitat ?Do you know its habitat?
- HugoJe crois qu'il vit près de l'océan.I believe he lives near the ocean.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “puffin” translations and entries macareux, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries macareux, CC BY-SA 4.0.
