tranquille
/tʁɑ̃.kil/
Definition
Calm, quiet, and free from worry or disturbance. Used to describe people, places, or situations.
Example
Le dimanche matin, notre rue est très tranquille.
Show translation
On Sunday morning, our street is very quiet.
Etymology
From Latin *tranquillus* ("calm, still"), itself of uncertain deeper origin — possibly related to *trans-* ("across, beyond") combined with a root meaning "stillness." The word passed into Old French and has remained largely unchanged in form and meaning ever since.
Cultural note
*Tranquille* punches well above its weight in everyday French. The casual phrase **"Laisse-moi tranquille !"** ("Leave me alone!") is a staple of daily life. Equally common is **"Sois tranquille"** — a reassurance meaning "don't worry" or "rest easy." In informal speech, teens and young adults also use **"tranquille"** as a standalone cool-sounding affirmative, similar to English "chill" or "no worries." Don't confuse it with the English false cognate *tranquil*, which sounds literary in English but is completely ordinary in French.