la

feminine

/kle/

#2384 of 5,000 Core 5000

Translation

key (older spelling of clé)

Word origin

From Latin clavis ('key'). Clef is the older spelling, which keeps the f of the Latin; modern French usually writes clé, and both are correct.

Origin: Latin
Root: clavis
English cognates: clef, clavicle

Grammar

Genderfeminine

Pluralclefs

Examples

J' .

I have lost the house key.

The keys are on the table.

He turns the key and opens the door.

l'.

The witness is the key to the case.

Lock up before you leave.

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French · Free printables

clef: worksheet, infographic and listicle

Free printable study downloads for the French word "clef" (key (older spelling of clé)): a worksheet with the answer key built in, an infographic, and a sentence listicle. Open any one to view, print or save.

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This word is part of lesson 48.