Menage Meaning in English
word
Definition
'Menage' is a rare, old-fashioned word meaning household or the members of a home, borrowed from French. In modern English, it's mainly found in the phrase 'ménage à trois' (a romantic relationship involving three people).
Usage & Nuances
Obsolete and extremely rare outside of the phrase 'ménage à trois'. Do not use for 'household' in regular English—it's not natural. Always keep the accent in 'ménage à trois'. Easily confused with 'manage' (to handle or control).
Example Sentences
The old novel described the lives of a French menage.
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My teacher explained that menage comes from French.
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You don’t hear the word menage in English very often.
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The phrase 'ménage à trois' is really the only time anyone uses menage anymore.
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If you see menage on its own, it probably means an old book or is used incorrectly.
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Don't confuse menage with 'manage'—they sound similar but have different meanings.
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