MIDDLE FRENCH Meaning and
Definition
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Middle French refers to the period between the 14th and 16th centuries when the French language underwent significant changes in its vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. It represents a crucial stage in the evolutionary process of the French language, situated between Old French and Modern French.
During the Middle French period, there was a notable shift in the pronunciation of vowels, a simplification of verb conjugations, and an increase in the usage of French words compared to Latin. This period also witnessed the introduction of some loanwords from other languages, such as Italian, Spanish, and Provençal.
Middle French was the language used by prominent French writers and intellectuals of the time, including François Rabelais, Michel de Montaigne, and Pierre de Ronsard. Their works contributed to the standardization and enrichment of the French language, establishing it as a literary language.
Furthermore, Middle French was characterized by various regional variations and dialects, highlighting the linguistic diversity across the country. However, the works of the aforementioned writers played a significant role in establishing Parisian French as the standard form of the language.
Overall, Middle French marks an essential transitional phase in the development of the French language, bridging the gap between its medieval origins and the modern variant we know today.
Etymology of MIDDLE FRENCH
The word "middle French" refers to the stage of the French language that developed from Old French and preceded Modern French. The term "middle French" itself does not have a specific etymology since it is a descriptive phrase rather than a single word with a defined origin.
However, the etymology of the word "French" can be traced back to the Latin word "Franciscus", which means "of the Franks". The Franks were a Germanic people who inhabited the territory that would later become France. Over time, the language spoken by the Franks evolved into what is now called French.
As for the term "middle French", it is used to refer to the period of French history between the 14th and 16th centuries when the language underwent significant changes in pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary. Middle French served as a transitional stage between Old French and Modern French.
