noun

la rue

street

C’est un chemin dans une ville où les gens marchent et où les voitures passent.

Definition & meaning

The word "rue" primarily refers to a street. It is a public thoroughfare in a town or city, usually paved and flanked by buildings, sidewalks, or houses. It is the most common term used to describe urban roads where people circulate.

In a completely different context, "rue" also refers to a type of perennial herb (Ruta graveolens) known in English as "rue." This plant is characterized by its bitter taste and has been used historically in medicine and cooking, though it is used much less frequently today.

Grammar & Word origin

In French, "rue" is a feminine noun (la rue). Its plural form is "rues."

The etymology of the word for "street" traces back to the Vulgar Latin "ruga," which originally meant a "furrow" or "wrinkle." In medieval Latin, this term began to be used to describe a path or a street lined with houses.

The botanical name "rue" comes from the Latin word "ruta," which was borrowed from the Greek "rhutē."

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms for the "street" meaning:

avenue: a wide urban street, often lined with trees.
boulevard: a large, important thoroughfare, often built on the site of old city fortifications.
ruelle: a narrow street or an alley.
voie: a general term for any way, road, or path of communication.
chemin: a path or road, often used for more rural or less formal routes.