clocher
/klɔ.ʃe/masculine
The French word for steeple is clocher.
The word clocher refers to a tall tower, typically one found on a church. In a village context, it is often used metonymically to refer to the entire church building itself.
Meaning: a tall tower, often on a church (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
As a masculine noun, the steeple is preceded by the masculine definite article le to form le clocher.
How do you pronounce it?
/klɔ.ʃe/
Did you know?
- The root of cloche comes from a Vulgar Latin word meaning 'to limp' or 'to be uneven'. This refers to the irregular shape of early cast bells.
- The phrase esprit de clocher refers to a narrow-minded or parochial attitude. It describes someone whose loyalty is limited to their own small village or local community.
- The term clocher is used in the expression guerre de clocher, which describes a petty or localized conflict between neighbors.
Examples in context
- Le clocher de l'église commence à crouler sous les ans.The church's steeple is beginning to crumble with age.This sentence is useful for describing the physical condition of a clocher.Tatoeba #806093 by sacredceltic, translation #695215 by darinmex
- Le clocher de la cathédrale de Séville était autrefois un minaret.The steeple of the cathedral of Seville used to be a minaret.This sentence provides historical context regarding a clocher.Tatoeba #9778438 by lbdx, translation #707012 by papabear
- J'adore l'architecture de cette église, surtout son magnifique clocher .I love the architecture of this church, especially its beautiful steeple.
- Le clocher est visible de très loin.The steeple is visible from very far away.
Example conversation
Hugo and Manon are walking in a small village.
- HugoRegarde ce vieux clocher, Manon.Look at that old steeple, Manon.
- ManonIl est vraiment magnifique.It is truly magnificent.
- HugoOn peut monter au sommet ?Can we climb to the top?
- ManonJe ne pense pas que ce soit ouvert.I don't think it is open.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “steeple” translations and entries clocher, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries clocher, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
