How to pronounce

baguette

American Pronunciation: /bæˈɡɛt/
- Breakdown: ba-GHET
British Pronunciation: /bæˈɡɛt/
- Breakdown: ba-GHET

In both American and British English, the pronunciation places the emphasis on the second syllable, with a distinct hard 'g' sound.

Definition of

baguette

baguette (noun): a long, thin French loaf of bread, often with a crisp crust and soft interior. Example 1: "I picked up a fresh baguette from the bakery to make sandwiches for our picnic." Example 2: "Can you pass me the baguette? I want to rip off a piece and dip it in the soup."

What does it mean

baguette

The term "baguette" means "wand," "baton," or "stick" in French, reflecting the bread's long, narrow shape. The origin of the baguette as a bread type is somewhat debated, but it is generally believed to have been developed in its current form in the early 20th century in France. One popular but unconfirmed story suggests that the baguette was developed as a bread of convenience for soldiers during the Napoleonic Wars because its shape made it easy to carry. Another theory is that it was designed for the Parisian working class, as the bread could be easily transported to work without cutting, which was a service that bakeries charged for at the time. Regardless of its true origin, the baguette has become a symbol of French culture and cuisine.

Frequently asked questions

How do you say baguette correctly?

To pronounce baguette correctly, emphasize the second syllable: buh-get, with a soft 'g' sound. Practice by listening to native French speakers and repeating slowly to capture the correct accent.

What are some common uses of the word baguette?

Baguette typically refers to the long, thin loaf of French bread. It can also mean a stick or rod in certain contexts, such as a magician’s wand in French. In cooking, people often use “baguette” for sandwiches, breakfast toasts, or as an accompaniment to meals.

Is there an alternative pronunciation of baguette?

Yes, French speakers pronounce it with a more prominent nasal sound at the beginning, roughly sounding like bah-get. In English contexts, you might hear buh-get. Regional accents may vary slightly, especially with the ‘u’ sound.