le
/ma.ʒɔʁ/
Translation
major (a military rank); also the top student of a year group, as in major de promotion. A false friend, it does not mean English 'major' as an adjective, which is majeur or principal
Word origin
From Latin maior ('greater'), the comparative of magnus ('great'). French took the military noun in the sixteenth century from Spanish and German usage, where a sargento mayor or Major outranked the ordinary sergeant. English 'major' and 'mayor' come from the same comparative.
- Origin
- Latin
- Root
- maior
- English cognates
- major, mayor, majority
Grammar
Examples
l' .
My uncle was a major in the army.
.
The major gathered the men in the courtyard.
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She finished top of her year.
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The duty major signed the register before midnight.
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Being top of the year opens plenty of doors.
Where this fits
Used in
Grammar articles
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major: worksheet, infographic and listicle
Free printable study downloads for the French word "major" (major (a military rank); also the top student of a year group, as in major de promotion. A false friend, it does not mean English 'major' as an adjective, which is majeur or principal): 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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Start your free weekThis word is part of lesson 34.