boules: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal / Sport
Quick answer
What does “boules” mean?
A French game in which two teams throw or roll heavy metal balls (also called boules) as close as possible to a smaller target ball called the cochonnet.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A French game in which two teams throw or roll heavy metal balls (also called boules) as close as possible to a smaller target ball called the cochonnet.
The plural noun can also refer to the set of metal balls used in the game. The word can occasionally be used informally to refer to balls in a general, non-game context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In the UK, 'boules' is commonly known, often played recreationally. In the US, it is far less common and may be referred to generically as 'French bowling' or explained more fully. The game 'pétanque' is a specific type of boules.
Connotations
UK: Connotes French culture, parks, summer, casual leisure. US: Primarily connotes a niche European activity; lower cultural recognition.
Frequency
Low frequency in both, but significantly higher in UK English due to geographic/cultural proximity.
Grammar
How to Use “boules” in a Sentence
play + boulesa set of + boulesroll/throw + boulesVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Rare; possibly in papers on sports history, European leisure studies, or cultural anthropology.
Everyday
Used when discussing hobbies, holidays in France, or activities in parks.
Technical
Used in the context of sport rules, equipment manufacturing, or event organization for the game.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “boules”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “boules”
- Using it as a singular count noun (e.g., 'a boule' for a ball - acceptable in French but unusual in English; prefer 'a boules ball').
- Mispronouncing as /baʊlz/ (like 'bowls').
- Treating 'boules' as a plural verb subject (e.g., 'The boules are...' is correct for the balls, but 'Boules is a game' is correct for the sport).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a plural noun for the balls. However, when referring to the game itself, it is treated as a singular noun (e.g., 'Boules is fun').
Pétanque is a specific, very popular variant of boules where players throw from a stationary circle. 'Boules' is the broader category.
It is pronounced /buːl/ (like 'bool'), identical to the singular French word 'boule'. The 's' is silent.
It is uncommon. Native English speakers usually say 'a boules ball' or just refer to the set as 'boules'. Using 'boule' is a direct borrowing from French.
A French game in which two teams throw or roll heavy metal balls (also called boules) as close as possible to a smaller target ball called the cochonnet.
Boules is usually informal / sport in register.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Boules are COOL balls you BOUL-der towards a target.'
Practice
Quiz
What is 'boules' primarily known as?