igname
/i.ɲam/
The French word for yam is igname.
The term refers to the edible root of the plant.
Meaning: its edible root (noun)
Which one should you use?
While igname is the specific term for a yam, the word patate is an informal term that can refer to yams, sweet potatoes or regular potatoes.
How do you pronounce it?
/i.ɲam/
Did you know?
- Because patate is so common, it is often used in French idioms to describe something silly or a person who is a bit slow, a usage that does not apply to igname.
- In many French-speaking regions in Africa, such as Côte d'Ivoire, the igname is not just a side dish but a central cultural symbol often celebrated with specific festivals.
- The word igname was introduced to French through the Portuguese word inhame.
Examples in context
- Est-ce que vous vendez des patates douces ici?Do you sell yams here?
- L'igname est très nourrissante.The yam is very nourishing.
- Je cuisine une igname pour le dîner.I am cooking a yam for dinner.
- Il faut éplucher l'igname avant de la cuire.You must peel the yam before cooking it.
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are in a kitchen preparing a meal.
- NathanEst-ce qu'on a une igname pour la recette ?Do we have a yam for the recipe?
- ChloéOui, elle est sur le plan de travail.Yes, it is on the countertop.
- NathanSuper, je vais la préparer pour toi.Great, I will prepare it for you.
- ChloéMerci Nathan, tu es très efficace.Thanks Nathan, you are very efficient.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry igname, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries igname, CC BY-SA 4.0.
