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.