folâtrer
frolic
Definition & meaning
Folâtrer means to frolic, romp, or play about in a lively, carefree way. It often describes children or animals moving around playfully. In a figurative sense, it can also mean to playfully flirt or behave in a lighthearted, teasing manner.
Grammar & Word origin
Folâtrer is a regular, intransitive -er verb. Its past participle is folâtré. It is related to folâtre , meaning “playful” or “mischievous,” and historically to fol , an older form related to fou , “foolish” or “mad.” The word suggests carefree, almost foolish playfulness.
Synonyms & antonyms
- gambader — to frolic or skip about, with more emphasis on energetic movement.
- jouer — to play; broader and more neutral than folâtrer.
- s’amuser — to have fun; it does not necessarily imply romping or playful movement.
- badiner — to joke or flirt lightly; more focused on playful conversation or teasing.
Possible opposites include:
- rester sérieux [?](vocabuo://word/rester sérieux) — to remain serious.
- se tenir tranquille [?](vocabuo://word/se tenir tranquille) — to keep still or behave quietly.
Common phrases & collocations
- des enfants qui folâtrent [?](vocabuo://word/des enfants qui folâtrent) — children frolicking.
- folâtrer dans l’herbe [?](vocabuo://word/folâtrer dans l’herbe) — to frolic in the grass.
- folâtrer avec quelqu’un [?](vocabuo://word/folâtrer avec quelqu’un) — to flirt or play around with someone.
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Examples
Les enfants folâtrent dans le jardin.verb
The children frolic in the garden.
Les chiots folâtrent autour de leur mère.verb
The puppies frolic around their mother.
Au printemps, les agneaux aiment folâtrer dehors.verb
In spring, the lambs like to frolic outside.
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