Chef-d'oeuvre (en. Masterpiece)

/ʃɛf.dœvʁ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
An excellent achievement in an artistic field.
The painting 'Mona Lisa' is considered a masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci.
Le tableau 'La Joconde' est considéré comme un chef-d'œuvre de Léonard de Vinci.
A work that reaches a significant level of excellence.
This novel is a masterpiece of modern literature.
Ce roman est un chef-d'œuvre de la littérature moderne.
A production that represents the best of its creator.
The film is perceived as the masterpiece of its director.
Le film est perçu comme le chef-d'œuvre de son réalisateur.

Etymology

The term 'chef-d'œuvre' comes from French, meaning 'main work', derived from 'chef' (leader, principal) and 'd'œuvre' (work, achievement).

Common Phrases and Expressions

masterpiece of humanity
A masterpiece recognized for its cultural and historical significance.
chef-d'œuvre de l'humanité
architectural masterpiece
A structure considered one of the finest architectural creations.
chef-d'œuvre architectural

Related Words

work
An artistic or literary creation.
œuvre
master
An expert in a specific field.
maître
artisan
A person who practices a manual profession, often in a highly skilled manner.
artisan

Slang Meanings

A work of madness or very impressive.
This latest album is a true masterpiece; everyone is talking about it.
Ce dernier album est un vrai chef-d'œuvre, tout le monde en parle.
An overly perfected creation, sometimes perceived as insincere.
His latest book, although technically a masterpiece, lacks authenticity.
Son dernier livre, bien que techniquement un chef-d'œuvre, manque d'authenticité.