noun

la semelle

sole

Partie plate située sous une chaussure qui touche le sol et protège le pied.

Word: semelle

Meaning in English:
The French word "semelle" primarily refers to the sole of a shoe — the bottom part of a shoe that comes in contact with the ground. It can also be used figuratively or in other contexts, but this is the most common and widely understood meaning.


Explanation and Components:

  • Definition:
    The sole, the piece of material attached to the bottom of a shoe to protect the foot and provide traction.

  • Parts:
    "Semelle" is a feminine noun in French.


Synonyms in French:

  • soulier (somewhat archaic term for shoe in general) — not exactly a synonym but related noun for shoe
  • dessous de chaussure (bottom of the shoe — descriptive phrase)
  • semelle intérieure — insole (inside part of the shoe sole)

Antonyms:

There isn't a direct antonym for "semelle," as it refers to a specific part of a shoe, but related words in context could be:

  • tige (the upper part of the shoe, opposite part to sole)
  • dessus de la chaussure (upper part of the shoe)

Extended/figurative uses:

  • Sometimes "semelle" can be used metaphorically in phrases related to reputation, pace, or travel, often connected with walking or footsteps.

Summary:

"Semelle" is a feminine noun meaning, in footwear context, the sole—the bottom part of a shoe touching the ground. It is integral to helping protect the foot and provide grip. There are no exact synonyms but related terms provide context to shoe anatomy.

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Examples

Ma chaussure a une semelle noire.noun

My shoe has a black sole.

La semelle de mes bottes s’est usée pendant la longue marche.noun

The sole of my boots wore down during the long walk.

Peux-tu vérifier si la semelle de cette sandale est propre ?noun

Can you check if the sole of this sandal is clean?

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