gaz

gas

noun GAHZ Less Common

Origin: coined by Dutch chemist Jan Baptist van Helmont (17th c.), likely from Greek khaos

Also means

natural gas, fuel

Usage Note

gaz is invariable — the plural is also gaz (no added -s, as the final -z already signals plurality in spelling). In everyday French le gaz often refers to household gas for cooking or heating. Gaz carbonique means 'carbon dioxide'.

Examples

"L'odeur de gaz est dangereuse."

Natural Translation

The smell of gas is dangerous.

Related Words

Explore French by topic

FrenchNow

French False Friends: 25 Faux Amis to Avoid

French false friends look like English words but mean something else: actuellement is not actually, sensible means sensitive. Here are 25 faux amis to avoid.

June 3, 2026 5 min read

FrenchNow

Le, La, Un, Du: French Articles Made Simple

Le, la, un, du, des made simple: pick the French article family by meaning, the form by gender, and dodge the two mistakes English speakers always make.

June 4, 2026 5 min read

FrenchNow

The Bonjour Rule: French Etiquette for Visitors

Always say bonjour before you ask, order, or pay in France — the unspoken rule that opens every door. A respectful visitor's guide to French etiquette.

June 4, 2026 6 min read

FrenchNow

French Silent Letters: The CaReFuL Rule

Final consonants in French are silent by default — except C, R, F, L. The CaReFuL rule, the silent -e, the plural-s trap, and liaison, explained simply.

June 4, 2026 5 min read