oublier
/u.bli.je/
Definition
To forget something or someone; to fail to remember or bring something.
Example
J'ai oublié mon téléphone à la maison ce matin.
Show translation
I forgot my phone at home this morning.
Etymology
From Old French *oblier*, from Vulgar Latin *oblitare*, a frequentative of Latin *oblivisci* ("to forget"), itself from *ob-* ("over, against") + the root of *levis* ("smooth") — evoking the image of memory being smoothed away.
Cultural note
The phrase *n'oublions jamais* ("let us never forget") is a solemn expression used in French memorial culture, notably on Armistice Day (11 November) and around WWII commemorations. It carries significant emotional weight and is not used lightly.