bécasse

woodcock

noun beh-KAHS Rare

Also means

silly woman

Usage Note

Bécasse is literally the Eurasian woodcock, a prized game bird known for its long bill and erratic flight. In colloquial French it is also a mildly contemptuous term for a foolish or scatterbrained woman. The diminutive bécasseau, formed with -eau, names the smaller sandpipers, a related but distinct group of waders.

Examples

"La bécasse est un gibier très apprécié des chasseurs."

Natural Translation

The woodcock is a game bird highly prized by hunters.

Related Words

Explore French by topic

FrenchNow

How to Pronounce the French R (Step by Step)

The French R is a back-of-the-throat sound, not a rolled R. Learn the exact tongue position and a step-by-step drill to build it from sounds you already make.

June 4, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

French Numbers 1 to 100: Count With Confidence

French numbers 1 to 100 in one complete chart, with pronunciation, the et-un rule, hyphens, and the four-twenties system explained so you can count anywhere.

June 4, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

French Object Pronouns: le, la, lui, leur Order

Le lui or lui le? Use the à-name test to pick le/la vs lui/leur, then one slot chart to order two French object pronouns — plus the command exception.

June 4, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

Tu vs Vous: When to Use Each in French

Tu vs vous in French: use tu for one friend, family, or child, and vous for strangers, elders, your boss, and any group. A clear etiquette guide.

June 3, 2026 6 min read