épée
/e.pe/feminine
The English word sword is translated into French as épée. Wiktionary also lists glaive.
Meaning: weapon (noun)
Ways to say it
| French | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| épée | /e.pe/ | feminine |
| glaive | /ɡlɛv/ | masculine |
The general term for a sword is épée. In legal or official contexts, the term Arme blanche is often used to refer to any bladed weapon, including swords. Additionally, if you are referring specifically to a fencing foil, the word fleuret is commonly used.
Which one should you use?
épée is the standard, general term for a sword used in most contexts. In contrast, glaive is a more literary or archaic term, often referring to a specific type of short sword or a ceremonial blade.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word épée is a feminine noun. Consequently, it is preceded by the feminine article une (as in une épée) or accompanied by feminine adjectives such as belle.
How do you pronounce it?
/e.pe/
Did you know?
- The English word 'spatula' is a distant relative of the French épée, as both trace their ancestry back to the same Greek word for a broad blade.
- French uses the term arme blanche to categorize swords and knives. This literally translates to 'white weapon', referring to the glint of the polished steel blade.
- The word glaive is frequently used in French literature to evoke the Roman Empire. It specifically brings to mind the short sword used by Roman legionaries rather than a medieval knight's blade.
Examples in context
- Tom a une épée.Tom's got a sword.This sentence shows the use of épée to indicate possession.Tatoeba #13424866 by Rovo, translation #13425464 by rul
- Je n'ai pas d'épée.I don't have a sword.This sentence shows how to use épée in a negative statement.Tatoeba #6463344 by Aiji, translation #386506 by Dorenda
- C'est une belle épée.It's a beautiful sword.This sentence demonstrates the use of the feminine adjective belle with épée.Tatoeba #7079907 by Aiji, translation #3820404 by CK
- 70 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
At a museum, Nathan and Léa look at an exhibit.
- NathanRegarde cette épée, Léa.Look at this sword, Léa.
- LéaElle est magnifique, Nathan.It is magnificent, Nathan.
- NathanEst-ce une épée très ancienne ?Is it a very old sword?
- LéaOui, elle semble très ancienne.Yes, it seems very old.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “sword” translations and entries épée, glaive, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries glaive, épée, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
