Words of French origin

(Many words from French are used in English)

valise (s) (noun), valises (pl)
A small suitcase, typically used for short trips: Zoe packed her valise with just some clothing and her make-up for her weekend visit with her grandmother.
velour (s) (noun), velours (pl)
A soft, velvet type of fabric used for cushions, upholstery, and clothing: Cloe chose red velour for her winter hat because it was so silky and smooth.
visa (s) (noun), visas (pl)
A document or official stamp issued by the government of a nation and attached to a valid passport authorising the holder to travel to that country for a specific purpose and limited time: As Joseph planned his holidays he applied for a visa to travel to the place his parents were born and to visit his grandparents.
zigzag (s) (noun), zigzags (pl)
1. A line or procedure that has abrupt or sharp alternating right and left turns: Marcus drove his car down the road from the mountain in sharp zigzags
2. Etymology: from French and German Zickzack, "an alteration of direction."
zigzag (verb), zigzags; zigzagged; zigzagging
To progress forward by moving in alternating and abrupt directions: Tom had to zigzag across the parking lot in order to avoid all the puddles of water which collected after the downpour the night before.
zigzag (adverb); more zigzag, most zigzag
Referring to how something or someone moves or switches to the left and to the right in an alternate manner: She drove her new car zigzag through the city, turning here and there and enjoying the sights of all the villas and new houses.
zigzag (adjective); more zigzag, most zigzag
Descriptive of the form of winding, deviating, or twisting and turning: Judy used the narrow zigzag stitch on her sewing machine when finishing the hem.

In order to avoid being caught by the fox, the rabbit ran in a zigzag course across the field.


See other English words from foreign languages at this
Other Languages Index.