How Do You Spell GIROUETTE?

Pronunciation: [d͡ʒˌa͡ɪɹa͡ʊˈɛt] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Girouette" may be confusing for English speakers as it is a French word. In phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as "jee-roo-et" with the stress on the second syllable. The "ou" combination in French is pronounced as "oo". The final "e" is silent, which is a common feature in French. The meaning of the word is "weather vane" or "wind vane", which is an instrument used to show the direction of the wind.

GIROUETTE Meaning and Definition

1. Girouette is a French noun that refers to a weather vane or wind vane in English. A weather vane is a specially designed instrument that indicates the direction from which the wind is blowing. It consists of a flat or shaped metal surface that is attached to a vertical rod or spindle, enabling it to rotate freely with the wind. A girouette is typically mounted on top of a building, such as a barn or a tower, and serves as a decorative element while also serving a functional purpose.

   The term "girouette" can also carry a metaphorical connotation in the French language. In this context, it may refer to a person who frequently changes their opinions or loyalties, or someone who shifts their stance or position easily based on popular opinion. This metaphorical usage implies a lack of steadfastness or stability in one's ideas or character.

   The word "girouette" originates from the Old French term "giroue," meaning "turning" or "revolving." It is derived from the verb "girer," which means "to turn" in French. The suffix "-ette" in the noun form indicates a diminutive or small version of the main term, emphasizing the relatively small size of the weather vane in comparison to the building on which it is mounted. Overall, "girouette" captures both the literal and metaphorical aspects of an instrument that constantly turns or shifts to indicate the direction of the wind.

2. A politician who turns with every prevailing side.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for GIROUETTE

• firouette
• virouette
• birouette
• hirouette
• yirouette
• gurouette
• gjrouette
• gkrouette
• gorouette
• g9rouette
• g8rouette
• gieouette
• gidouette
• gifouette
• gitouette
• gi5ouette
• gi4ouette
• giriuette
• girkuette
• girluette

Etymology of GIROUETTE

The word "girouette" is derived from French. It comes from the combination of two words: "girer" meaning "to turn" and "vent" meaning "wind". In English, "girouette" is typically referred to as "weathervane". The word signifies an instrument that rotates with the wind to indicate its direction. It has its origins in Old French, where "girer" meant "to turn" and "vent" meant "wind". Over time, the word "girevent" evolved into "girouette" to specifically describe a weather indicator.

Plural form of GIROUETTE is GIROUETTES