Pays (en. Country)

/pɛ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A geographical region or a sovereign state.
France is a country in Europe.
La France est un pays d'Europe.
A territory inhabited by a group of people sharing common cultural or historical characteristics.
The Basque Country has a unique culture.
Le pays basque a une culture unique.
Rural area or remote region.
He chose to live in the countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the country.
Il a choisit de vivre à la campagne, loin des agitations du pays.

Etymology

The word 'pays' comes from the Latin 'pagus', which means 'territory' or 'district'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

host country
A country that receives immigrants.
pays d'accueil
developing country
A country with a low standard of living and a growing economy.
pays en développement
homeland
The country where one is born.
pays natal

Related Words

landscape
Visual aspect of a country or region.
paysage
peasant
Farmer, rural.
paysan
landscaper
A person who plans and creates landscapes.
paysagiste

Slang Meanings

A country that is considered underdeveloped.
This place is so isolated, it's a real backwater country.
Ce coin est tellement isolé, c'est un vrai pays de paumé.
Reference to one's own country in an affectionate manner.
My country is the best in the world!
Mon pays, c'est le meilleur au monde !