étoile arc-en-ciel
The English phrase "rainbow star" is translated into French as étoile arc-en-ciel.
This phrase refers to a star that displays the colors of the rainbow.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the phrase plural, only the noun étoile takes an s, resulting in étoiles arc-en-ciel. The modifier arc-en-ciel remains invariable.
Did you know?
- In the world of ballet, the highest rank a dancer can achieve is étoile, which elevates them beyond the rank of premier danseur.
- In French, arc-en-ciel literally translates to 'arc in sky', using the word ciel for both 'sky' and 'heaven'.
- The word étoile shares an unexpected connection with the English name 'Estelle' and the common name 'Stella', both of which derive from the same Latin root.
Examples in context
- J'ai vu une étoile arc-en-ciel.I saw a rainbow star.
- Regarde cette étoile arc-en-ciel dans le ciel.Look at that rainbow star in the sky.
- L'étoile arc-en-ciel brille de mille couleurs.The rainbow star shines with a thousand colors.
- J'ai dessiné une étoile arc-en-ciel sur mon cahier.I drew a rainbow star in my notebook.
Example conversation
Nathan and Léa are looking at a children's book about space.
- NathanEst-ce que c'est une étoile arc-en-ciel, Léa ?Is that a rainbow star, Léa?
- LéaOui, elle est vraiment magnifique, Nathan.Yes, it is truly magnificent, Nathan.
- NathanElle change de couleur tout le temps.It changes color all the time.
- LéaC'est la plus belle du livre.It is the most beautiful one in the book.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries étoile, CC BY-SA 4.0.
