blanc-bec

greenhorn

noun blahn-BEK Rare

Also means

cocky youngster

Usage Note

Blanc-bec is an informal, slightly dated term for an inexperienced young person who acts with unwarranted self-confidence — literally 'white beak', evoking a fledgling bird. The plural is blancs-becs. It carries a mildly contemptuous tone from the speaker.

Examples

"Ce blanc-bec prétend tout savoir."

Natural Translation

That greenhorn claims to know everything.

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