cherie: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Literary, sometimes used ironically or humorously in informal contexts.
Quick answer
What does “cherie” mean?
A French term of endearment meaning 'darling' or 'dear', directly borrowed into English.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A French term of endearment meaning 'darling' or 'dear', directly borrowed into English.
Used to address or refer to a loved one, sweetheart, or darling; often conveys a sense of romantic affection, intimacy, or fondness.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is similar, though slightly more prevalent in British English due to historical and geographic proximity to France. In American English, its use might be perceived as more overtly affected or theatrical.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes affection, but can also imply pretension or cliché romance depending on context.
Frequency
Low frequency in both; primarily found in literary, artistic, or intentionally stylized contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “cherie” in a Sentence
Term of address (Vocative): 'Cherie, could you pass the salt?'Term of reference: 'He wrote a letter to his cherie.'Possessive + cherie: 'my cherie amour'Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Rare; might appear in literary analysis or studies of loanwords.
Everyday
Rare; might be used as an affectionate nickname or in ironic/humorous contexts between close partners.
Technical
Not applicable.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cherie”
- Misspelling as 'cherry', 'sherie', or 'cheri'.
- Mispronouncing the initial 'ch' as /tʃ/ (like in 'chair') instead of /ʃ/ (like in 'shoe').
- Using it in overly formal or inappropriate contexts where a simpler 'dear' would be natural.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency loanword from French. It is used for stylistic effect, in romantic contexts, or humorously.
In British English, it is typically /ˈʃɛr.iː/ (SHEH-ree). In American English, it is often /ʃəˈriː/ (shuh-REE). The 'ch' is pronounced like 'sh'.
In its original French, 'chérie' is feminine and 'chéri' is masculine. In English, this distinction is often lost, and 'cherie' (spelled with an 'e') is frequently used for a female beloved, but can be used generically.
'Darling' is a native English term of endearment used commonly. 'Cherie' is a French borrowing that sounds more exotic, romantic, or affected. The core meaning is the same.
A French term of endearment meaning 'darling' or 'dear', directly borrowed into English.
Cherie is usually formal/literary, sometimes used ironically or humorously in informal contexts. in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “"My Cherie Amour" (song title)”
- “ma cherie (my darling)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the famous Stevie Wonder song 'My Cherie Amour' to remember it means 'my darling love'.
Conceptual Metaphor
LOVED ONE IS A PRECIOUS OBJECT (cherished).
Practice
Quiz
What is the most accurate description of the word 'cherie' in English?