Noeuds (en. Knots)

[nø]

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A set of tight loops made with a thread, a rope, or a strip.
There are knots in the rope that prevent it from coming undone.
Il y a des noeuds dans la corde qui l'empêchent de se défaire.
Complex difficulties or problems to solve.
We need to untie the knots of the pending issues.
Nous devons défaire les noeuds des questions en suspens.
Small bumps on the surface of a fabric.
This fabric has knots that give it character.
Cette étoffe a des noeuds qui lui donnent du caractère.

Etymology

From the Latin 'nodus' meaning 'knot' or 'bump.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

Brain knot
Difficulty in understanding something.
nœud au cerveau
Knot of the story
The moment when events take a decisive turn.
nœud de l'histoire
Untie the knots
Resolve a complex situation.
défaire les nœuds

Related Words

Bow tie
A tie shaped like a knot that fastens around the neck.
nœud papillon
Sheet bend
A type of knot used in navigation.
nœud marin
Chair knot
A specific knot used to secure two chairs together.
nœud de chaises

Slang Meanings

To be in trouble or in a difficult situation.
I'm in a real knot with this project since it was poorly planned.
Je suis dans de beaux nœuds avec ce projet depuis qu'il est mal planifié.
To be confused or disoriented.
After that meeting, my thoughts are completely in knots.
Après cette réunion, j'ai les idées complètement en nœuds.