chiffonnier

rag-and-bone man, junk dealer

noun shee-fo-NYAY Rare

Origin: from chiffon 'rag' + -ier

Also means

tall chest of drawers (furniture)

Usage Note

Chiffonnier has two distinct meanings: the person who collects or deals in rags and second-hand goods, and a tall narrow chest of drawers. The phrase se battre comme des chiffonniers (to fight like rag-pickers) is a well-known French idiom meaning to quarrel fiercely.

Examples

"Le chiffonnier vendait de vieux vêtements."

Natural Translation

The rag-and-bone man sold old clothes.

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