plaid
/plɛ/
The English phrase "throw blanket" is translated into French as plaid.
plaid refers to a small, lightweight blanket used for warmth or as a decorative cover on a sofa. The term un plaid can also refer to a tartan pattern.
How do you pronounce it?
/plɛ/
Did you know?
- The word plaid in French has two distinct histories: one comes from the English word for a Scottish garment and the other from the Latin placitum, meaning an agreement or decree.
- In English, 'plaid' is primarily an adjective describing a pattern, but in French, un plaid functions as a noun meaning the physical object itself.
- Because plaid is an imported term, some traditionalists in France prefer the term jetée de lit to describe a decorative throw.
Examples in context
- J'ai besoin d'un plaid pour le canapé.I need a throw blanket for the sofa.
- Ce plaid est très doux.This throw blanket is very soft.
Example conversation
Hugo and Léa are relaxing in the living room.
- HugoTu as froid, Léa ?Are you cold, Léa?
- LéaOui, je ne trouve pas mon plaid.Yes, I can't find my throw blanket.
- HugoLe plaid est derrière toi.The throw blanket is behind you.
- LéaAh merci, Hugo !Oh thank you, Hugo!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry plaid, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries plaid, CC BY-SA 4.0.
