Definition

1. Noun:
   • A coffee beverage: "café au lait" refers to a drink made with equal parts of strong brewed coffee and hot milk. It is typically served in a large cup or bowl.
   • A light brown color: The term can also describe a pale brown color, similar to the shade of coffee with milk.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She ordered a café au lait for breakfast, enjoying the smooth blend of coffee and milk. (A specific coffee drink.)
  • The walls were painted a warm café au lait, giving the room a cozy feel. (A light brown color.)

Advanced Usage

• "café au lait" as a cultural term: In France, it is traditionally served in a bowl (bol) and is a common morning drink, distinct from a "café crème" which uses espresso.
  • In Parisian cafés, a café au lait is often served with a croissant. (A cultural breakfast pairing.)

Variants and Related Words

• Café (n): coffee or a coffee shop.
  • Let's meet at the café for a drink. (A place serving coffee.)
• Lait (n): milk (from French).
  • He prefers his coffee with lait rather than cream. (Milk.)

Synonyms

• Coffee with milk: a general term for the drink.
• Latte: a similar espresso-based drink with steamed milk (though typically stronger in coffee flavor).
• Café con leche: the Spanish equivalent of café au lait.

Phrasal Verbs

• None directly associated with "café au lait" as a fixed phrase.

Related Idioms

• "Café au lait complexion": an idiomatic expression referring to a light brown skin tone.
  • The actress is known for her beautiful café au lait complexion. (A skin color description.)