eau
/o/noun★Beginner
general
Water
L'eau est essentielle à la vie.
Water is essential to life.
Il a bu un verre d'eau.
He drank a glass of water.
💡
The word 'eau' is feminine and singular. Its plural form is 'eaux,' though it is rarely used.
Collocations
eau potabledrinking watereau minéralemineral watereau de toilettetoilet water (perfume)
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
eau de rosephrase
rose water
eau bénitephrase
holy water
💡Pro Tip
Gender and Plural
Remember that 'eau' is feminine (la eau) and its plural form 'eaux' is rarely used in everyday language.
⚡Gold Rule
Usage in Idioms
In idiomatic expressions like 'péter les eaux' (to break water), 'eau' takes on specific meanings related to childbirth or other contexts.
📖Word Origin
From Old French 'ewe,' derived from Latin 'aqua,' meaning 'water.'
📝Usage Notes
'Eau' is a common and fundamental word in French, referring to the liquid essential for life. It is used in various contexts, from everyday language to scientific and poetic expressions.
Word Breakdown
eau
water
root✎ Noted on May 2, 2026FR → EN