phoque

seal (animal)

noun FOK Rare

Usage Note

Phoque is notable for its spelling versus pronunciation — the ph gives an /f/ sound and the final -que is silent on the 'e', producing simply 'fok'. It refers to true seals (family Phocidae), distinct from otarie (sea lion). The word is sometimes used humorously in French because its pronunciation resembles a common English vulgarity.

Examples

"Le phoque se repose sur la glace."

Natural Translation

The seal is resting on the ice.

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