océan

ocean

noun oh-seh-AHN Less Common

Origin: Greek okeanos

Usage Note

Océan refers to the major oceans of the world, while mer (sea) is used for smaller bodies of water like the Mediterranean. France borders l'Atlantique and la Méditerranée. The adjective océanique describes an oceanic climate, which is the climate type of much of western France.

Examples

"Ils nagent dans l'océan Atlantique."

Natural Translation

They are swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.

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