Pronunciation: [kˈaləndə] (IPA) 
The word "Calandre" is a French term used to describe a car's grille. It is spelled as /ka.lɑ̃dʁ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The initial "c" is pronounced as "k", while the "a" is pronounced as "ah". The "l" and "d" are separate sounds in French, with the "l" pronounced as usual and the "d" being pronounced as a dental consonant. Finally, the "r" at the end of the word is not pronounced, as is common in many French words.
Calandre is a noun that refers to a distinctive type of radiator grill found in automobiles. It is derived from the French language and commonly used to describe the prominent and ornamental front grill of a vehicle, particularly vintage or classic cars. The term originated in the early 20th century when French automobile manufacturers, such as Peugeot, Citroën, and Renault, started designing cars with this unique feature.
A calandre typically consists of a horizontal, typically chromed, metal lattice work or multiple bars that are often arranged in a pattern. This design creates an attractive and recognizable front profile for the vehicle, reinforcing its aesthetic appeal. The main purpose of a calandre, aside from its visual appeal, is to provide protection to the frontal parts of the car, particularly the radiator, by acting as a shield against debris and other potential hazards that could otherwise damage the engine.
The term "calandre" is often used interchangeably with the English term "grille" or "front grille" when referring to vehicle design. However, calandre tends to evoke a certain elegance and sophistication associated with European automotive design, especially in the context of classic or luxury cars. The presence of a calandre has become a hallmark of timeless and stylish automobiles, symbolizing the artistry and craftsmanship that go into creating these iconic vehicles.
The word "Calandre" has its etymology rooted in Latin. It comes from the Latin word "calendae", which referred to the first day of each month in the Roman calendar. Over time, the term "calendae" evolved into "calendra" in medieval Latin, and later into "calandre" in Old French. The word eventually found its way into English, primarily in the context of the automotive industry, where it refers to the decorative grille on the front of a car.
