cervelle

French

Etymology

Inherited from Middle French cervelle, from Old French cervele, from Latin cerebella, the plural of cerebellum (whence French cerveau) reinterpreted as a feminine singular.

Pronunciation

  • IPA(key): /sɛʁ.vɛl/
    • Audio:(file)
  • (Louisiana) IPA(key): /sær.vɛl/, /sar.vɛl/
  • Rhymes: -ɛl
  • Homophone: cervelles

Noun

cervelle f (plural cervelles)

  1. (archaic or derogatory or Louisiana) brain (organ of thought)
    Synonym: cerveau
    Utilise ta cervelle, banane !
    Use your brain, idiot!
  2. (cooking) brains
    cervelle de veau au beurre
    calf brains in butter

Derived terms

Further reading

Middle French

Etymology

From Old French cervele.

Noun

cervelle f (plural cervelles)

  1. brain (anatomy)

Descendants

  • French: cervelle