Pronunciation: [lˈuːi ˌɛksvˈiː] (IPA) 
The spelling of "Louis XV" can sometimes be confusing due to the odd combination of letters. However, it can be easily explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Louis" is spelled /luwi/ which shows the two "u" sounds that in English are usually combined into one. "XV" is spelled /ɛks vi/, which indicates the "x" sound as "eks" and the "v" as "vi." Therefore, the correct spelling of "Louis XV" is /luwi ɛks vi/.
Louis XV was the name given to Louis de France, also known as Louis the Well-Beloved, who reigned as the King of France from 1715 until his death in 1774. Born on February 15, 1710, he ascended to the throne at the tender age of five upon the death of his great-grandfather, Louis XIV. Due to his age, a regency was established under the control of Philippe, Duke of Orléans, until Louis reached maturity in 1723.
Louis XV is often remembered for his indulgent lifestyle, his love for lavish court gatherings, and his contributions to the arts and intellectual movements. His long reign was marked by numerous wars, including the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War, which had major consequences for the balance of power in Europe.
In terms of his style and taste, Louis XV is closely associated with the Rococo aesthetic. During his reign, French art and architecture gravitated towards ornamentation, asymmetry, and pastel color palettes, departing from the grandeur of the preceding Baroque era. This shift can be observed in the construction and design of notable structures like the Palace of Versailles.
Louis XV's reign is regarded as a time of transition in France, bridging the end of the absolute monarchy under Louis XIV and the tumultuous events leading to the French Revolution. Despite his personal popularity, he faced criticism for his perceived weakness in governance and for his inability to implement necessary reforms. His death in 1774 was followed by the ascension of his grandson, Louis XVI, who would face the challenges that ultimately led to the French Revolution and the overthrow of the monarchy.
The word "Louis XV" refers to Louis XV, who was the King of France from 1715 to 1774. The etymology of the name "Louis" can be traced back to the Germanic name "Chlodovech", which consists of the elements "hlud" meaning "fame" and "wig" meaning "warrior". Over time, this name evolved and was passed down through various languages, resulting in different forms, including Clovis in French. Eventually, the form Louis became associated with French royalty.
The designation "XV" that follows Louis represents the Roman numeral for 15. It signifies the 15th king named Louis in the line of French monarchs, starting with Louis I, who reigned from 814 to 840. Therefore, "Louis XV" refers to Louis XV as the fifteenth king of France named Louis.
