Definition

Proper noun A French cabaret singer, songwriter, and cultural icon, renowned for her powerful, emotive voice and her performances of chansons réalistes (realist songs). She is one of France's most celebrated and internationally known performers.

Usage

• Edith Piaf is often referred to by her nickname, "The Little Sparrow" (), which reflects her small stature and early street-performer background.
• Her life story, marked by hardship and triumph, is as famous as her music.
• She is a definitive figure in French music history.

Examples

• As a subject: began singing on the streets of Paris.
• In possessive form: most famous song is "La Vie en rose."
• As an object: The documentary explored the legacy of .

Advanced Usage

• "A Piaf song": Used to describe a song performed or made famous by her, typically characterized by its emotional depth and classic French style.
  • The accordionist played a haunting Piaf song.
• "Piaf-esque": An adjective describing a performance or vocal style reminiscent of Edith Piaf's passionate and dramatic delivery.
  • The singer gave a Piaf-esque rendition of the classic ballad.

Variants and Related Words

• Piaf: A common shortened reference to the singer.
  • He's a big fan of Piaf.
• La Môme Piaf: Her original nickname and the title of a famous biographical film about her life.

Synonyms

• The Little Sparrow: Her iconic nickname.
• French chanteuse: A female singer of French songs, especially in a nightclub or cabaret setting.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Singing like Piaf": Used to describe a very powerful, raw, and emotionally charged vocal performance.
  • She wasn't just singing; she was singing like Piaf, pouring her heart into every note.

Noun

1. French cabaret singer (1915-1963)