Papillons (en. Butterflies)

/pa.pi.jɔ̃/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

noun

Insect of the order Lepidoptera, characterized by colorful wings.

Butterflies often fly from flower to flower.

Les papillons volent souvent de fleur en fleur.

Lepidopteran, often associated with beauty and lightness.

The monarch butterfly is known for its impressive migrations.

Le papillon monarque est connu pour ses migrations impressionnantes.

Symbols of transformation and lightness in many cultures.

In the garden, you can see butterflies landing on the flowers.

Dans le jardin, on peut voir des papillons se poser sur les fleurs.

From the Latin 'papilio', which also means butterfly.

to have butterflies in one’s stomach

To be nervous or excited, usually due to love.

avoir des papillons dans le ventre

to fly like a butterfly

To move lightly and gracefully.

voler comme un papillon

to transform like a butterfly

To undergo a metamorphosis, often in the context of personal growth.

se transformer comme un papillon

caterpillar

Larva of a butterfly before its metamorphosis.

chenille

chrysalis

Transitional state of a butterfly between larva and adult.

chrysalis

cloak

Sometimes used to describe a butterfly due to its bright colors.

manteau

A moth, often used to describe an attractive person.

Look at that butterfly over there; she’s attracting all the attention.

Regarde ce papillon là-bas, elle attire tous les regards.

Used to refer to something light or insignificant.

It’s just butterflies; it’s not worth worrying about.

C'est juste des papillons, ça ne vaut pas le coup de s'inquiéter.