adj
Uncommon
nouveau
noo-VOH
Nouveau (adj) means New or fashionably modern, often used ironically or in borrowed French phrases. Example: “The gallery specializes in art nouveau pieces from the early 1900s.”
adj
1
New or fashionably modern, often used ironically or in borrowed French phrases.
"The gallery specializes in art nouveau pieces from the early 1900s."
How to use nouveau
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFrench for "new"; usually seen in borrowed terms like "art nouveau" or "nouveau riche."
Easily confused with
Common pairings
art nouveau
nouveau riche
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Word forms
- Plural
- nouveaus, nouveaux
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The gallery specializes in art _____ pieces from the early 1900s.
Etymology
A direct borrowing from French nouveau, "new" — a doublet of the English word "novel."
Rhymes for nouveau
See all rhymes for nouveau →Frequently asked questions
What does “nouveau” mean?
The word “nouveau” means new or fashionably modern, often used ironically or in borrowed French phrases. In plain terms, french for "new"; usually seen in borrowed terms like "art nouveau" or "nouveau riche.".
How do you pronounce “nouveau”?
“Nouveau” is pronounced noo-VOH (/nuːˈvoʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “nouveau” in a sentence?
Here is “nouveau” used in a sentence: “The gallery specializes in art nouveau pieces from the early 1900s.”
What part of speech is “nouveau”?
“Nouveau” is an adjective.
Where does the word “nouveau” come from?
The word “nouveau” comes from French. A direct borrowing from French nouveau, "new" — a doublet of the English word "novel.".
Is “nouveau” a common word?
“Nouveau” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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