Houillère (en. Coal mine)

/wi.jɛʁ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Mines or deposits of coal.
The coal mine in the region closed its doors after several decades of operation.
La houillère de la région a fermé ses portes après plusieurs décennies d'exploitation.
Coal extracted from a coal mine.
The coals produced by this coal mine are of very good quality.
Les houilles produites par cette houillère sont de très bonne qualité.

Etymology

The word 'houillère' comes from Old French 'houille', meaning 'coal'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to work in a coal mine
To engage in a professional activity in a coal mine.
travailler dans une houillère
to close a coal mine
To cease the operation of a coal mine.
fermer une houillère

Related Words

coal
Coal used as fuel.
houille
mine
Excavation for the extraction of minerals or metals.
mine

Slang Meanings

In search of coal.
We go to the coal mine to seek resources.
On va à la houillère pour chercher des ressources.
Work under difficult conditions.
It's a job in the coal mine; it's exhausting.
C'est un travail à la houillère, c'est épuisant.