solstice d'hiver
/sɔl.stis d‿i.vɛʁ/masculine
The English phrase "winter solstice" is translated into French as solstice d'hiver.
The term refers to the moment when a hemisphere is most inclined away from the sun.
Meaning: the moment when the hemisphere is most inclined away from the sun (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the noun solstice and the prepositional phrase d'hiver, which literally means "of winter".
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun solstice is masculine, so it is preceded by the masculine article le in the form le solstice d'hiver.
How do you pronounce it?
It has 3 syllables.
Did you know?
- In France, the solstice d'hiver is often associated with the fête des lumières or festivals of light to combat the seasonal darkness.
- The word solstice shares its roots with the English word 'stand', as the Latin 'sistō' means 'to make stand still'.
- While English speakers often refer to the 'winter solstice', French speakers often use the term le solstice on its own when the season is contextually obvious.
Examples in context
- Demain c'est le solstice d'hiver.Tomorrow's the winter solstice.Tatoeba #947082 by U2FS, translation #12230836 by Miktsoanit
- Nous célébrons chaque année le solstice d'hiver avec une grande fête.We celebrate the winter solstice every year with a big party.
- Le solstice hivernal est un moment magique, où la nuit règne en maître et où nous célébrons le retour de la lumière.The winter solstice is a magical moment, where night reigns supreme and where we celebrate the return of light.
- Le solstice d'hiver approche.The winter solstice is approaching.
- On fête le solstice d'hiver en famille.We celebrate the winter solstice with the family.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing seasonal changes in a park.
- LucasTu sais quand tombe le solstice d'hiver ?Do you know when the winter solstice falls?
- LéaC'est vers le vingt-et-un décembre, je crois.It is around December 21st, I think.
- LucasC'est la nuit la plus longue de l'année.It is the longest night of the year.
- LéaOui, Lucas, c'est tout à fait ça.Yes, Lucas, that's exactly right.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “winter solstice” translations and entries solstice d'hiver, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries solstice, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
