sorbet
/sɔʁ.bɛ/masculine
The English word "sorbet" is translated into French as sorbet.
The term refers to a frozen dessert made from fruit juice or puree. The word "sorbet" is commonly used in French and is easily recognizable in both formal and informal settings.
Meaning: frozen fruit juice (noun)
Which one should you use?
In French, a sorbet specifically refers to a frozen dessert made from fruit juice or puree without dairy, distinguishing it from glace which typically contains milk or cream.
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun sorbet is masculine and is used with the indefinite article 'un' to form un sorbet (a sorbet).
How do you pronounce it?
/sɔʁ.bɛ/
Did you know?
- The word sorbet shares an ancient lineage with the Arabic verb šariba, which means 'to drink'.
- In a traditional multi-course French meal, a sorbet is often served between courses to cleanse the palate rather than as a final dessert.
- During the 17th century, sorbet was a luxury item in France, often prepared in specialized 'ice houses' for the aristocracy.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, je voudrais un sorbet à la framboise, s'il vous plaît.Hello, I would like a raspberry sorbet, please.
- J'adore les sorbets fruités.I love fruity sorbets.
- Ce sorbet au citron est très rafraîchissant.This lemon sorbet is very refreshing.
- Je voudrais un sorbet à la fraise, s'il vous plaît.I would like a strawberry sorbet, please.
- Le serveur apporte un sorbet à la mangue.The waiter brings a mango sorbet.
Example conversation
Emma and Gabriel are sitting in a cafe on a hot summer afternoon.
- EmmaQuel sorbet veux-tu choisir ?Which sorbet do you want to choose?
- GabrielJe prendrai le sorbet à l'orange.I will have the orange sorbet.
- EmmaC'est un excellent choix pour l'été.That is an excellent choice for the summer.
- GabrielOui, il a l'air délicieux.Yes, it looks delicious.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sorbet” translations and entries sorbet, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries sorbet, CC BY-SA 4.0.
