Chefs-d'oeuvre (en. Masterpieces)
/ʃɛf d‿œvʁ/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
noun
Work of an artist or author deemed to be their best work.
The Mona Lisa is a masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci.
La Joconde est un chef-d'œuvre de Léonard de Vinci.
An exceptional piece in a particular field.
This novel has been acclaimed as a masterpiece of contemporary literature.
Ce roman a été acclamé comme un chef-d'œuvre de la littérature contemporaine.
An achievement that surpasses the standard of what is usually expected.
The ballet she staged is truly a masterpiece.
Le ballet qu'elle a mis en scène est véritablement un chef-d'œuvre.
Etymology
The term 'chef-d'œuvre' comes from Old French, where 'chef' meant 'master' and 'œuvre' 'work, creation'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
masterpiece of art
Majestic work considered an exceptional example in the world of art.
chef-d'œuvre de l'art
a masterpiece of cuisine
A very refined dish that represents the pinnacle of culinary art.
un chef-d'œuvre de la cuisine
to create a masterpiece
To create something exceptional that deserves to be celebrated.
réaliser un chef-d'œuvre
Related Words
craftsman
Person who builds or manufactures objects or works by hand.
artisan
work
Artistic or literary creation.
oeuvre
creation
Action of creating; result of that action.
création
Slang Meanings
The cream of the crop
This film is the cream of the crop of French cinema.
Ce film est la crème de la crème du cinéma français.
Tile
This painting has rocked the gallery; it’s a masterpiece tile.
Cette peinture a fracassé la galerie, c'est une tuile de chef-d'œuvre.