copain

/kɔ.pɛ̃/
boyfriend

Mon copain est très gentil.

My boyfriend is very nice.


informal

A boyfriend or male romantic partner.

Elle a rencontré son copain à l'université.

She met her boyfriend at university.

In informal contexts, 'copain' can also refer to a close male friend, but the primary meaning is 'boyfriend.'

Collocations

mon copainmy boyfriendmon meilleur copainmy best friend

Synonyms

Related Phrases

avoir un copainphrase
to have a boyfriend
sortir avec un copainphrase
to date a boyfriend

Pro Tip

Gender-Specific Usage

'Copain' is masculine. For a female romantic partner, use 'copine' or 'petite amie.'

Gold Rule

Formal vs. Informal

In formal contexts, 'petit ami' is preferred over 'copain'.

Word Origin

From Old French 'copain,' meaning 'companion' or 'friend,' derived from 'cop' (comrade) and 'pain' (bread).

Usage Notes

'Copain' is commonly used in informal contexts to refer to a boyfriend. In some regions, it can also mean a close male friend.

Word Breakdown

cop
comrade
root
+
pain
bread
root
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais