Papillon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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papillon

[หˆpรฆpiหŒjษ’n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

breed of dog

A small dog of a breed having erect ears, a long silky coat, and a bushy tail.

Synonyms

butterfly dog.

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Word Description / Examples
papillon

Can also be used to refer to a butterfly in French literature or poetic contexts, though less commonly in everyday modern English.

  • The garden was alive with the fluttering of papillons.
  • She wore a dress adorned with delicate papillons.
butterfly dog

A casual way to refer to a Papillon, often used in informal conversations or by people who might not be familiar with the breed name.

  • I met a cute butterfly dog at the park today.
  • Her new puppy looks like a butterfly dog with those big ears.

Examples of usage

  • He adopted a papillon puppy from the shelter.
  • The papillon won the Best in Show award at the dog show.
Context #2 | Noun

movie title

A 1973 Franco-American crime film directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, based on the memoirs of Henri Charriรจre.

Examples of usage

  • Papillon is considered a classic prison escape movie.
  • Steve McQueen starred in the title role of Papillon.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Papillons originated in the royal courts of Europe, particularly in France and Belgium, during the Renaissance.
  • They were favored by nobility and often depicted in paintings, revealing their popularity among the elite.
  • Throughout history, the breed was known as 'Dwarf Spaniel' until its distinct features were recognized.

Pop Culture

  • The papillon dog breed has appeared in various films and series, showcasing its charm and intelligence.
  • Notable celebrities, including Marie Antoinette and Mozart, were said to have owned papillons, highlighting their status.
  • In dog shows, papillons are celebrated for their agility and playful demeanor, captivating audiences worldwide.

Training and Behavior

  • These dogs are considered highly intelligent and easy to train, making them great companions for families.
  • They are known for their playful and energetic temperament, thriving in interactive activities.
  • Socialization from a young age helps them develop good behaviors, turning them into friendly pets.

Health and Care

  • Papillons are generally healthy but can be prone to dental issues due to their small mouths.
  • Regular exercise and mental stimulation are vital for their well-being and happiness.
  • Their long, beautiful coats require regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles.

Origin of 'papillon'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Papillon' in French means 'butterfly,' which describes the breed's large, wing-shaped ears.
  • The term has Latin roots, deriving from 'papilio,' also meaning butterfly, related to its appearance.
  • The breedโ€™s name reflects the graceful and elegant look of the dog, akin to a butterfly in flight.

The word 'papillon' originates from the French language, where it means 'butterfly'. The name refers to the breed of dogs due to their butterfly-like ears. Papillons are known for their elegant appearance and playful nature. The term has been used in various contexts, including dog breeding and film titles. The popularity of the word has grown due to the charm and uniqueness associated with both the dog breed and the movie.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,034, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.