L'éléphant (en. The elephant)
/el-e-fã/
Meaning & Definition
EnglishFrench
noun
Large terrestrial mammal known for its trunk and large ears.
The elephant can live more than 60 years in the wild.
L'éléphant est capable de vivre plus de 60 ans dans la nature.
Symbolizes wisdom and memory in some cultures.
In Asian culture, the elephant is often associated with good luck.
Dans la culture asiatique, l'éléphant est souvent associé à la chance.
Wild animals found mainly in Africa and Asia.
African elephants have larger ears than those in Asia.
Les éléphants d'Afrique ont des oreilles plus grandes que ceux d'Asie.
Etymology
From Greek 'elephas' meaning 'elephant'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
to have an elephant's memory
to have a very good memory.
avoir une mémoire d'éléphant
elephant in the room
an obvious problem that everyone ignores.
éléphant dans la pièce
Related Words
sea elephant
A large marine seal, common in the southern hemisphere.
éléphant de mer
elephant calf
A young elephant.
éléphanteau
Slang Meanings
An individual who takes up a lot of space or is very imposing.
He walks into the room like an elephant in a china shop.
Il entre dans la salle comme un éléphant dans un magasin de porcelaine.
A person with a great memory.
She has an elephant's memory; she remembers everything!
Elle a une mémoire d'éléphant, elle se souvient de tout !