ENTENDRES Meaning and
Definition
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Entendres, plural form of "entendre," is a literary term derived from the French language, primarily used in English-speaking contexts. It refers to a figure of speech that involves a double entendre, where a phrase or sentence has a dual meaning or interpretation, often with one meaning being risqué or suggestive in nature.
The term "entendre" itself translates to "to understand" in French, which reflects its linguistic origins and usage. Entendres are commonly used in literature, comedy, and wordplay to create humor, irony, or ambiguity. They rely on the use of subtle, clever language techniques such as puns, innuendos, or wordplay to convey multiple meanings simultaneously.
Entendres can add depth and wit to a piece of writing, allowing for various interpretations or comedic effects. They often require the audience or reader to have a certain level of linguistic awareness or shared knowledge to fully comprehend the intended humor or subtext.
However, the use of entendres can also be seen as a form of wordplay that challenges conventional language norms. They can be employed to highlight societal taboos, satirize cultural expectations, or explore the intricacies of human communication.
Overall, entendres are a literary device used to create layered meaning and playfulness within language, enhancing the effectiveness of communication and creating engaging and memorable experiences for the audience or reader.
Etymology of ENTENDRES
The word "entendres" is the plural form of the noun "entendre", which has its roots in the French language. The etymology of "entendre" can be traced back to the Old French verb "entendre", meaning "to understand" or "to hear". This Old French term originated from the Latin verb "intendere", which carries a similar meaning of "to intend" or "to direct one's attention to". Over time, the sense of "entendre" expanded to include the notion of double entendre, a play on words with a hidden or suggestive meaning.
