milieu
1 synonym for milieu, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The physical or social environment surrounding someone; their surroundings or setting.
How to use milieu
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
social milieu
artistic milieu
in this milieu
A fairly formal, literary word — "environment" or "surroundings" is more everyday.
Etymology
Borrowed directly from French milieu, "middle" or "surroundings," from Old French mi- ("middle") plus lieu ("place").
Full origin of milieu →Frequently asked questions
What does “milieu” mean?
The word “milieu” means the physical or social environment surrounding someone; their surroundings or setting. In plain terms, the environment or social world someone belongs to or is surrounded by.
How do you pronounce “milieu”?
“Milieu” is pronounced MEEL-yur (/mɪlˈju/ in IPA).
How do you use “milieu” in a sentence?
Here is “milieu” used in a sentence: “She felt out of place in the corporate milieu.”
What part of speech is “milieu”?
“Milieu” is a noun.
Where does the word “milieu” come from?
The word “milieu” comes from Old French. Borrowed directly from French milieu, "middle" or "surroundings," from Old French mi- ("middle") plus lieu ("place").
