patois
|pat-ois|
C1
/ˈpætwɑː/
informal dialect
Etymology
Etymology Information
'patois' originates from French, specifically the word 'patois', where 'patois' meant 'rough speech'.
Historical Evolution
'patois' changed from the Old French word 'patois' and eventually became the modern English word 'patois'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'rough or unrefined speech', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'regional dialect or informal speech'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a regional dialect, especially one without a written tradition.
The villagers spoke a patois that was difficult for outsiders to understand.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/02/17 09:51