crapaud: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal (zoological), Informal/Slang (derogatory)
Quick answer
What does “crapaud” mean?
A toad, especially a large or common toad.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A toad, especially a large or common toad.
Used as a derogatory term for a person, especially a French person (slang, chiefly Caribbean and historical).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In both varieties, the primary zoological term is known but rare. The slang, derogatory sense for a French person is largely historical and associated with Caribbean English.
Connotations
Zoological: neutral. Slang: strongly negative, ethnic slur.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties. More likely encountered in historical texts or specific regional contexts (e.g., Caribbean) than in contemporary general use.
Grammar
How to Use “crapaud” in a Sentence
The [ADJ] crapaud [VERBed].He was called a crapaud.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Possible in zoological or historical texts.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Potentially offensive if used in its slang sense.
Technical
Zoology: a valid common name for certain toads.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “crapaud”
- Using it as a general term for 'frog'.
- Using the slang sense without awareness of its offensive, ethnic nature.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency word. It is primarily a zoological term or a historical/regional slang term.
No, it specifically refers to toads, which are a different subgroup of amphibians. Using it for frogs is technically incorrect.
It was used as a derogatory ethnic slur against French people, particularly in 18th-century Caribbean contexts, comparing them to despised toads.
It is virtually absent from contemporary everyday speech in both varieties. It might appear in specialized zoological writing or historical accounts.
A toad, especially a large or common toad.
Crapaud is usually formal (zoological), informal/slang (derogatory) in register.
Crapaud: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrapəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /kræˈpoʊ/ or /ˈkræpoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None in common English usage.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a 'crow' and a 'toad' combined – a 'crap-aud' is a croaking toad.
Conceptual Metaphor
UGLINESS/DESPICABILITY IS A TOAD (in the slang sense).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'crapaud' considered potentially offensive?