patois — a regional form of a language that differs from the standard variety, especially one with low prestige
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a regional form of a language that differs from the standard variety, especially one with low prestige
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpæt.wɑː/
Example Sentences
- The rap song was full of urban patois that even native speakers needed subtitles to understand completely.
- Professor Smith studied Caribbean patois for twenty years before he could finally order coffee without confusing the barista.
- The novel authentically captured the rural patois of 19th-century Louisiana.
patois
NOUN[/ˈpæt.wɑː/]
a regional form of a language that differs from the standard variety, especially one with low prestige
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From 17th-century French, originally meaning 'rough speech' or 'clumsy language.' Derived from French 'patoier' meaning 'to handle roughly' or 'to paw at,' initially used somewhat dismissively to refer to non-standard regional dialects.
Breakdown
From French root 'pat-' (paw/handle roughly) + '-ois' (French suffix indicating manner or style of speaking)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The rap song was full of urban patois that even native speakers needed subtitles to understand completely.”
“Professor Smith studied Caribbean patois for twenty years before he could finally order coffee without confusing the barista.”
“The novel authentically captured the rural patois of 19th-century Louisiana.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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