French Expression of the Day: Nid-de-poule
Briefly

The term 'nid-de-poule,' meaning 'hen's nest' in French, refers to potholes found on roads, a term dating back to the mid-19th century. Originally, roads were poorly maintained, causing natural depressions, or potholes, influenced by wild birds' behavior. The expression underlines a common driving concern in France today, especially on older country routes where such hazards are prevalent. It is essential for motorists to be aware of this term to avoid damage to their vehicles, especially when navigating less-maintained roads.
Nid-de-poule is the French word for 'pothole,' referring to annoying holes in roads caused by poor maintenance.
The term 'nid-de-poule' translates literally to 'hen's nest,' highlighting its misleading nature despite being widely used for potholes.
Read at The Local France
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