Épingle (en. Pin)

/e.pɛ̃ɡl/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A small pointed object used to fasten fabrics or other materials.
She used a pin to close her coat.
Elle a utilisé une épingle pour fermer son manteau.
A hairpin used to secure hairstyles.
He needs a hairpin for his hairstyle.
Il a besoin d'une épingle à cheveux pour sa coiffure.
A safety pin, used to close garments or to hold objects together.
He fastened his papers with a safety pin.
Il a attaché ses papiers avec une épingle de sûreté.

Etymology

From Old French 'epingler', from Latin 'pinna' meaning a feather or a pin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

To be on a pin
To be in an uncomfortable or precarious situation.
être sur une épingle
Safety pin
A specific type of pin that is secure for attaching objects.
épingle de sûreté
Diaper pin
A curved pin used to keep clothing in place.
épingle à nourrice

Related Words

Staple
Small object used to hold together sheets of paper.
agrafe
Brooch
Jewelry that attaches to clothing.
broche
Fastener
Object used to fix or bind elements together.
attache

Slang Meanings

Reference to a delicate situation.
He is in a pin situation, he needs to act quickly.
Il est dans une situation d'épingle, il doit agir vite.
Said of a person who is critical towards another.
He's a real pin to nitpick.
C'est un vrai épingle à chicaner.