noun

le reflet

reflection

C’est une image que l’on voit dans une surface comme l’eau ou un miroir, quand la lumière rebondit dessus.

The French word "reflet" means reflection in English. It refers to the image or likeness of something that is seen on a surface, usually a shiny or smooth one such as water, glass, or a mirror.

Meaning:

A "reflet" is the visual copy of an object that appears on a reflective surface.
It can also be used figuratively to speak about something that represents or shows the qualities of something else, as in "un reflet de la société" (a reflection of society).

Synonyms and differences:

Reflet: Specifically the image you see mirrored on a surface. Usually linked to physical reflections but also figurative representations.
Réflexion: Although similar in sound, it primarily means "thought" or "consideration," and also the physical phenomenon of reflection in scientific terms (light, sound, etc.).
Image: More general term for any likeness or representation (photo, painted image, digital image), but not specifically the one formed by reflecting light/surfaces.
Miroir: Means "mirror," the object itself that produces the reflet.

In summary, “reflet” mainly refers to the mirrored image seen on surfaces and is used both literally and figuratively.