french letter

french letter

A man purchases a box of french letters from a pharmacy.

Definition
  1. Noun (countable):
    • A condom: "french letter" is a dated, informal term for a condom, a contraceptive sheath worn during sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
Usage Examples
  • (A condom for protection.)
  • (Condoms were available but not openly discussed.)
  • (A condom for contraception.)
Advanced Usage

  • "French letter" is considered a euphemism and is now largely archaic or humorous. It was more common in British English during the 20th century.

    • My grandfather still calls condoms "french letters" — it sounds quaint. (A dated term used humorously.)

  • The term "French" here may refer to the perceived origin of the item, similar to "French kiss" or "French toast," though not historically accurate.

Variants and Related Words
  • French letter (noun phrase): no common variants; the term is fixed.
Synonyms
  • Condom: the standard, modern term for the contraceptive sheath.
  • Rubber: an informal, common synonym in American English.
  • Prophylactic: a formal, medical term for a condom.
  • Johnny (British slang): another dated, informal term for a condom.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

  • "To use a french letter": to employ a condom during sex.

    • They decided to use a french letter to be safe. (They used a condom for protection.)

  • "To wrap it up": a modern, informal phrasal verb meaning to put on a condom.

    • He was reminded to wrap it up before the act. (Use a condom.)
Related Idioms
  • "Better safe than sorry": a proverb often associated with condom use.
    • He brought a french letter because better safe than sorry. (Precaution is wise.)

Note: This term is now rarely used in everyday conversation except for historical or humorous effect. Modern language learners should prefer "condom" for clarity.