Peste (en. Plague)

/pɛst/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Serious infectious disease that has struck human populations throughout history.
The Black Death decimated a large part of the European population in the 14th century.
La peste noire a décimé une grande partie de la population européenne au XIVe siècle.
Figuratively, a harmful person or phenomenon.
This liar is a real nuisance in our group.
Ce menteur est une véritable peste dans notre groupe.
Unhealthy environment or epidemic danger.
She announced the plague in this region due to a cholera outbreak.
Elle a annoncé la peste dans cette région à cause d'une épidémie de choléra.

Etymology

From Latin 'pestis', meaning 'plague, pest'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to be a nuisance
To be very annoying or difficult to bear.
être une peste
to make a fuss
To act in an unpleasant or tumultuous manner.
faire la peste
bubonic plague
A term designating the plague caused by the Yersinia pestis bacteria.
peste brune

Related Words

plague-stricken
Referring to a person or animal affected by the plague.
pestiféré
pestilent
Causing or evoking the plague or infectious diseases.
pestilent
pestilentially
In a harmful or contagious manner.
pestilentiellement

Slang Meanings

Annoying or unpleasant person.
This guy is a real pest; he never stops talking.
Ce gars est une vraie peste, il ne sait jamais s'arrêter de parler.
A disastrous situation.
This situation is a plague; nothing is going as planned.
Cette situation est une peste, rien ne va comme prévu.