Pierre (en. Rock)

/pjɛʁ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
Solid mineral substance, used in construction.
The cathedral was built of stone.
La cathédrale a été construite en pierre.
A small piece of rock.
He picked up a stone on the beach.
Il a ramassé une pierre sur la plage.
A gem or crystal.
She wears a ring with a precious stone.
Elle porte une bague en pierre précieuse.

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'petra', which means 'rock'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

cornerstone
Foundation or essential element.
pierre angulaire
to throw stones
To criticize someone.
jeter la pierre
hard as a rock
Very rigid or inflexible.
dure comme la pierre

Related Words

stony
Who is filled with stones.
pierreux
precious stones
Stones shaped for their beauty, often used in jewelry.
pierres précieuses
flint
Stone used to produce a spark.
pierre à fusil

Slang Meanings

A term used to designate someone solid or reliable.
He's a true rock, always there to help.
C'est un vrai pierre, toujours là pour aider.
To designate a person who refuses to change their mind.
He is as hard as a rock in his beliefs.
Il est aussi dur qu'une pierre sur ses convictions.