Javert (en. Javert)

/ʒavɛʁ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

An emblematic character in Victor Hugo's 'Les Misérables', representing authority and duty.

Javert is obsessed with capturing Jean Valjean.

Javert est obsédé par la capture de Jean Valjean.

A term used to designate a person excessive in their application of the laws.

This policeman acts like a true Javert, leaving no room for compassion.

Ce policier agit comme un véritable Javert, ne laissant aucune place à la compassion.

The word 'Javert' is derived from the character of Victor Hugo in his novel 'Les Misérables', representing law and order.

to be a javert

To act rigidly and inflexibly regarding the law.

être un javert

to have the spirit of javert

To be intensely moralistic by taking duty seriously.

avoir l'esprit de javert

rigidity

Characteristic of what is rigid, inflexible.

rigidité

loyalty

Fidelity or devotion to a law or principle.

loyalty

Strict policeman

This cop is a javert, he lets nothing slide.

Ce flic est un javert, il ne laisse rien passer.

Excessive moralist

Don't be a javert, sometimes you have to know how to be flexible.

Ne sois pas un javert, des fois, il faut savoir faire preuve de souplesse.