porte-avions

aircraft carrier

noun port-ah-VYOHN Rare

Usage Note

Porte-avions is invariable — the plural is identical to the singular (des porte-avions). It is a compound of porter (to carry) and avions (aircraft). France operates the nuclear-powered Charles de Gaulle, the country's only aircraft carrier.

Examples

"Le porte-avions quitte le port ce soir."

Natural Translation

The aircraft carrier is leaving port tonight.

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